What is acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease?

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF)

ARF can develop after an untreated strep throat – a throat infection caused by a bacteria called Group A Streptococcus (GAS). This bacteria is contagious and can be spread in droplets through coughing, sneezing and sharing food or drinks.

You can find more information about what acute rheumatic fever is, the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and how to prevent it here.

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD)

RHD occurs when the heart and heart valves are permanently damaged by ARF. Blood moves between the different parts of the heart through valves. These are like doors between the rooms of the heart. When heart valves are damaged they can become leaky so blood goes the wrong way through the valve. They can also become stiff so it is hard for blood to leave where it came from.

You can find more information about what RHD is, the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and how to prevent it here.