Rheumatic fever is a complication that can follow an infection with a type of bacteria (called group A strep) , the cause of "strep throat". Rheumatic fever can affect the heart, joints, skin and other organs. Children between the ages of 5 and 15 are most susceptible to this condition.

Rheumatic fever is caused when the body's immune system makes antibodies to fight the strep bacteria that cause an infection. Certain parts of the bacteria are similar to some kinds of human tissues. These antibodies become confused and begin to target tissues in the body. Rheumatic fever is rare. Most sore throats are not strep infections. Of those that are, only about three in one thousand people who have had strep develop rheumatic fever.

The symptoms of rheumatic fever are:
* pain and swelling in large joints,
* fever,
* weakness,
* shortness of breath,
* rash,
* bumps under the skin, and
* spasms of the arms and legs.

The most serious complication of the disorder is when the heart is affected. The symptoms of rheumatic fever can appear up to six weeks after a strep infection. Usually the condition is treated with antibiotics like penicillin or erythromycin. Antibiotics can be given for several months to lower the chance of rheumatic fever happening again. If the heart has been affected, sometimes surgery is necessary to correct the condition.

If your child has had a sore throat, and develops these symptoms weeks later, see your healthcare provider right away. If your child has had rheumatic fever, he or she may be given antibiotics to take before all surgical procedures including dental work.

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