Childhood sore throats can lead to heart damage, Indonesian doctors warn

Parents are urged to be vigilant about sore throats in children, as this common ailment can escalate into severe heart damage and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), a significant health concern in Indonesia.

Dr. Sarah Rafika Nursyirwan, a pediatric cardiology consultant, explained that Acute Rheumatic Fever and RHD are prevalent heart infections in Indonesia. These conditions are frequently triggered by untreated Group A Streptococcus bacterial infections, which initially target the throat or tonsils. If the infection is not fully treated, the body's immune response can mistakenly attack its own tissues, particularly the heart valves.

"The symptoms of acute rheumatic fever are very subtle, one of which is a sore throat caused by Streptococcus group A bacterial infection. If complications occur because this condition is not managed properly, it can lead to damage to the heart valves or RHD. This is fatal, as it carries the risk of heart failure at a young age," Dr. Sarah stated during a virtual discussion hosted by the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI).

Indonesia faces a substantial burden of RHD, ranking fourth globally behind China, India, and Pakistan. Worldwide, RHD affects over 40 million people, leading to more than 300,000 deaths each year. The progression from a sore throat to valve damage involves initial bacterial infection, followed by Acute Rheumatic Fever as an autoimmune reaction that can affect the heart, joints, brain, and skin if not properly managed.

“

The symptoms of acute rheumatic fever are very subtle, one of which is a sore throat caused by Streptococcus group A bacterial infection. If complications occur because this condition is not managed properly, it can lead to damage to the heart valves or RHD. This is fatal, as it carries the risk of heart failure at a young age.