Don’t let “popularity” hurt your “heart”

When the seasons change and the temperature changes, the influenza virus comes unexpectedly. Because it can be transmitted through droplets and contact, it can easily spread rapidly in crowded places such as schools, offices, shopping malls, and stations. Common symptoms after infection include sudden high fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, etc. Some patients also have respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and runny nose. In general, after proper rest and symptomatic treatment, most patients can gradually recover in about a week. However, the virus may break through the body's defenses and cause more serious problems-viral myocarditis. Especially for young people and children, the potential risks should not be underestimated.

1. What is viral myocarditis?

Viral myocarditis is a disease characterized by severe edema and dysfunction of myocardial tissue after the influenza virus invades the human body and multiplies in large numbers. The body's immune system is activated to fight the virus, which affects the normal function of the heart and causes patients to experience symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, dyspnea, fatigue and syncope. In severe cases, it often causes acute heart failure, severe arrhythmias and cardiogenic shock, which is clinically called "fulminant myocarditis". This type of myocarditis is characterized by rapid onset, severe condition, rapid progression and poor prognosis, with a mortality rate of up to 80%!

The disease is more common in winter and can occur in people of all ages. It is more common in young and middle-aged people who are healthy and have no underlying organic diseases [1], with no obvious gender difference.

Myocarditis MRI

2. How to identify early?

Early diagnosis is crucial! In the early stages of the disease, you may only feel mild discomfort, with symptoms of the common cold such as fever, fatigue, cough, abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting. If you quickly develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, chest pain, palpitations, blurred vision, syncope, and convulsions, you should be highly alert. This may be a sign of the most serious and special type of myocarditis, and you should seek emergency medical treatment immediately!

3. How to prevent and manage viral myocarditis?

(1) Enhance immunity and personal hygiene habits

The first element to prevent viral myocarditis is to enhance personal immunity and develop good personal hygiene habits. Improving human immunity is the key to resisting viral invasion. In addition, maintaining a balanced diet, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, can ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, which can help the body fight viruses. Third, regular physical activity can not only strengthen the body, but also promote blood circulation and enhance heart function, thereby indirectly improving resistance to viruses. Fourth, sleep quality cannot be ignored. Adequate sleep is conducive to the repair and reconstruction of the immune system. Fifth, in terms of personal hygiene, washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick people, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and wearing masks during flu season are all effective ways to prevent the spread of viruses and reduce the risk of viral myocarditis.

(2) Vaccination

Another important strategy for preventing viral myocarditis is to get vaccinated before an epidemic strikes. Although there is no specific vaccine for viral myocarditis, vaccination against influenza and certain other viral diseases, such as mumps, measles, and rubella, can significantly reduce the risk of myocarditis caused by these viral infections. Regular vaccination, especially before flu season, can build an extra layer of protection for the body.

(3) Seek professional treatment

Once viral myocarditis is diagnosed, professional treatment and lifestyle adjustments become particularly critical. Treatment options usually include rest, medication, and supportive therapy. Rest is the core of the recovery period, which helps to reduce the burden on the heart and promote myocardial repair. In terms of lifestyle, you should follow the doctor's instructions, avoid overwork, and engage in moderate physical activity, such as walking or relaxing yoga. A balanced diet is beneficial for controlling blood pressure and maintaining heart health. Psychological adjustment is also very important. In the face of the pressure of the disease, seeking psychological counseling or joining a patient support group in a timely manner can improve your mood and increase your confidence in defeating the disease.

In this flu season, viral myocarditis is a potential health threat. By enhancing awareness, taking preventive measures, timely diagnosis and scientific treatment, we can protect heart health, enjoy a healthy life and build a solid line of defense for the health of ourselves and our families.

References:

[1] Chinese expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of fulminant myocarditis in adults - Journal of Internal Medicine Critical Care Medicine - 2017-12-15

Source: Chongqing Science Writers Association

Author: Wei Xiaoyu, deputy chief physician of Yongchuan Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, and Zou Jingbo, chief technician of Zou Teacher Science Garden

Audit expert: Li Hanbin

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