A sore throat is often seen as a minor illness. Many people ignore it, hoping it will go away on its own. However, a simple sore throat can sometimes hide a silent threat. If left untreated, it can lead to a serious condition known as rheumatic heart disease.
Rheumatic heart disease develops from repeated or untreated infections caused by Streptococcus bacteria. These bacteria are the main cause of strep throat.
When the infection is not treated properly with antibiotics, the immune system may overreact. This reaction can damage the heart valves over time. What starts as a sore throat can therefore end up as permanent heart damage.
The symptoms of rheumatic fever, which often follow untreated strep throat, include joint pain, skin rashes, fever, and chest discomfort. In children and teenagers, this condition is more common because their immune systems are still developing.
If not managed early, rheumatic fever progresses into rheumatic heart disease. This stage is lifelong and may require surgery or long-term treatment.:.Read the full now & the viral video.
