Why is it important to take care of my health after I've been diagnosed with rheumatic fever?
Rheumatic fever can happen again and again. Each time it comes back, the heart can get damaged.
The valves inside the heart that keep the blood moving in the right direction become damaged and no longer work properly. This is called rheumatic heart disease.
People who get rheumatic heart disease can end up very tired and short of breath because the heart has to work harder to move the blood around the body when heart valves are not working properly. They may not be able to do the things they used to do, such as rugby, netball, tag, housework, chores, or lawn mowing.
Other parts of the journey
My rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease journey introduction
Checklist - going home from hospital after my rheumatic fever
Taking care of my health after a diagnosis of rheumatic fever (You are here)
What exactly is rheumatic fever?
My rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease journey in pictures
What exactly is rheumatic heart disease?
How will my rheumatic fever be managed?
What other ways can I look after my health after rheumatic fever?
When can I return to doing the things I enjoy after rheumatic fever?
Will I need regular medical check-ups after rheumatic fever?
Acknowledgements
This information is adapted from the rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease booklet produced by the Rheumatic Fever Project Team, Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau, 2022.
References
Rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease booklet (PDF, 9.94 MB). Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau, 2022.
