Myocarditis
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. Myocarditis may occur after a viral, fungal, or bacterial infection, such as diphtheria, rheumatic fever, or tuberculosis.
Treatment for myocarditis includes evaluation and treatment of the underlying cause of the inflammation. Treatment may require use of antibiotics, if a bacterial infection is the cause, and medications to relieve pain and inflammation. Lifestyle changes, including increased rest and a low-salt diet, may be part of the treatment.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 25, 2007
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