Myocarditis

Myocarditis is the inflammation of the heart muscle. This reduces the efficiency of the heart’s pumping function and disrupts the normal rhythm of the heart. The heart contains four chambers; two upper chambers called atria and two lower chambers called ventricles. The oxygen-poor blood enters the right side of the heart from the rest of the body, which is then pumped to the lungs to be oxygenated. The oxygen-rich blood returns to the left side of the heart and from there, pumped to the rest of the body. Myocarditis can be caused by:

• Infections due to virus including influenza (flu) virus, Coxsackie virus which causes symptoms like flu, provirus which causes a rash, adenovirus which causes common cold

• Allergic reaction to certain medications including antibiotics, and illegal drugs such as cocaine

• Exposure to certain chemicals and radiations

• Some diseases which causes inflammation

In children, myocarditis is usually caused by a viral infection. There are no known risk factors associated with this disease. Myocarditis can result in the formation of blood clots in the heart leading to a stroke or heart attack.​

When to seek expert advise

Get immediate medical attention if you notice your child experiencing above mentioned symptoms. For best medical care, visit our doctors at the Department of Paediatrics at The Aga Khan University Hospital the only internationally accredited hospital in Pakistan.​