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DESCRIPTION
Rheumatic fever is a complication of a streptococcal bacterial infection. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease which may develop 2 to 3 weeks (about 20 days) following a Group A streptococcal infection, typically strep throat, tonsillitis, scarlet fever, or ear infection. In up to a third of cases, the underlying strep infection may not have caused any symptoms. In the United States, most cases of strep throat do not lead to rheumatic fever. Even in untreated cases, only a small percentage of people with strep throat develop rheumatic fever.
Rheumatic fever develops as a result of the buildup of antibodies that have been produced to fight off the strep infection and is believed to be caused by antibody cross-reactivity in which the antibodies end up attacking the body's own tissues. This disorder may affect one or several parts of the body and can involve the heart, joints, skin, spinal cord, and brain. If the heart is affected, permanent damage to one or more heart valves (rheumatic carditis) commonly may result and can interfere with normal blood flow through the heart. Permanent heart damaged resulting from rheumatic fever is called rheumatic heart disease. Rheumatic fever most often affects children aged 3 to 18 years of age. Acute rheumatic fever commonly appears in children ages 5 through 15, with only 20 percent of the first time attacks occurring in adults.
Rheumatic fever is common worldwide and responsible for many cases of damaged heart valves. Rheumatic fever is still common in developing countries. In Western countries, it became fairly rare since the 1960s, probably due to widespread use of antibiotics to treat streptococcus infections. While it is far less common in the United States since the beginning of the 20th century, there have been a few outbreaks since the 1980s. Although the disease seldom occurs, outbreaks still occur periodically and it is considered serious. It has a mortality of 2 to 5 percent.
The rate of development of rheumatic fever in individuals with untreated strep infection is estimated to be 3 percent. The incidence of recurrence with a subsequent untreated infection is substantially greater (about 50 percent). The rate of development is far lower in individuals who have received antibiotic treatment. Persons who have suffered a case of rheumatic fever have a tendency to develop flare-ups with repeated strep infections.
The recurrence of rheumatic fever is relatively common in the absence of maintenance of low dose antibiotics, especially during the first three to five years after the first episode. Heart complications may be long-term and severe, particularly if valves are involved.
It gets its name for its similarity in presentation to rheumatism.
A QUICK OVERVIEW ABOUT RHEUMATISM
Rheumatism or Rheumatic disorder is a non-specific term for medical problems affecting the heart, bones, joints, kidney, skin and lung. The study of, and therapeutic interventions in, such disorders is called rheumatology. The term "rheumatism" is still used in colloquial speech and historical contexts, but is no longer frequently used in medical or technical literature; it would be fair to say that there is no longer any recognized disorder simply called "rheumatism." Some countries use the word Rheumatism to describe fibromyalgia syndrome. The traditional term covers such a range of different problems that to ascribe symptoms to "rheumatism" is not to say very much. Nevertheless, sources dealing with rheumatism tend to focus on arthritis. However, "non-articular rheumatism", also known as "regional pain syndrome" or "soft tissue rheumatism" can cause significant discomfort and difficulty. Furthermore, arthritis and rheumatism between them cover at least 200 different conditions. The term "Rheumatic Diseases" is used to refer to connective tissue disorders. Palindromic rheumatism has been theorized to be a form of rheumatoid arthritis.
The major types of rheumatic disorders currently recognized include:
- Ankylosing spondylitis.
- Back pain.
- Bursitis/ Tendinitis, Shoulder pain, wrist, biceps, leg, knee (patellar), ankle, hip, and Achilles.
- Capsulitis.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Neck pain.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Psoriatic arthritis.
- Rheumatic fever.
- Rheumatic heart disease (a long-term complication of Rheumatic fever).
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Temporal arteritis and Polymyalgia rheumatica.
- Tenosynovitis.
Although these disorders probably have little in common in terms of their epidemiology, they do share two characteristics: they cause chronic (though often intermittent) pain, and they are difficult to treat. They are also, collectively, very common.
Treatment of rheumatic symptoms included a vast number of traditional herbal remedies were recommended for "rheumatism". Modern medicine, both conventional and complementary, recognizes that the different rheumatic disorders have different causes (and several of them have multiple causes) and require different kinds of treatment. Nevertheless, initial therapy of the major rheumatological diseases is with analgesics, such as paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), members of which are ibuprofen and diclofenac. Often, stronger analgesics are required.
Miscellany - A Trod in the west of England is a straight line or fairy path in the grass of a field with a different shade of green to the rest. People with rheumatism sought relief by walking along these tracks, though animals were thought to avoid them.
There has long been said to be a link between "rheumatic" pain and the weather. There appears to be no firm evidence in favor or against; a 1995 questionnaire given to 557 people by A. Naser and others at the Brigham and Women's Hospital's Pain Management Center concludes that "changes in barometric pressure are the main link between weather and pain. Low pressure is generally associated with cold, wet weather and an increase in pain. Clear, dry conditions signal high pressure and a decrease in pain".
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
The first signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever may include:
- Typical pain, inflammation, stiffness and swelling in a large joint such as the knees, ankles, elbows. and wrists. The joints may appear red from the inflammation and/or warm to the touch. The pain and swelling can travel from one joint to another.
- Fever occurs with the pain.
- Faint pink or red skin rash (erythema marginatum) may appear on the trunk and upper part of the arms or legs. The eruptions will look ring-shaped or snake-like in appearance.
Other signs and symptoms that may appear include:
- Bumps or nodules over a joint or joints.
- Fatigue.
- Sydenham's choreal which exhibits as emotional instability, muscle weakness, and quick, uncoordinated, uncontrollable jerky body movements of the arm, leg, feet, hands, or facial muscles.
- Nosebleeds (epistaxis).
- Chest pain (may be a sign or cardiac problems).
- Shortness of breath (may be a sign of cardiac problems).
To diagnose rheumatic fever, health care providers generally look for evidence of a preceding strep throat infection, which is characterized by:
- Sore throat, usually severe or a mild sore throat that does not dissipate after several days.
- Red and swollen tonsils.
- Fever of over 101°F without other cold symptoms.
- Fatigue.
- Abdominal pain (in younger children).
- Tender lymph nodes in the front of the neck.
- Headache.
- Muscle aches.
In some cases, the initial strep infection may not cause any symptoms.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Sore Throat
CAUSES
The exact cause of rheumatic fever is not clear. Medical research has focused on an abnormal immune system response to the antigens produced by specific types of streptococcal bacteria. In addition, researchers are studying whether some people have a greater genetic disposition for an abnormal immune system response to streptococcal antigens.
PREVENTION
The only known way to prevent rheumatic fever is to adequately treat strep throat infections with a full course of appropriate antibiotics.
Most of the time, a virus is the cause of a sore throat, and viruses do not lead to rheumatic fever. A sore throat with fever lasting more than 24 hours may indicate a strep infection. Only a small percentage of people with untreated strep throat will develop rheumatic fever. Prompt and complete treatment of strep throat with a full course of appropriate antibiotics can prevent strep throat from progressing to rheumatic fever.
Prevention of recurrence is achieved by eradicating the acute infection and prophylaxis with antibiotics. The American Heart Association recommends daily or monthly prophylaxis continue long-term, perhaps for life.
Health practitioners also have a role in prevention, primarily in screening school-aged children for sore throats that may be caused by Group A streptococci (especially Group A Beta-Hemolytic Streptococcus pyogenes).
Valves of the Heart
There are four valves in the heart:
1) The aortic valve.
2) The mitral valve.
3) The tricuspid valve.
4) The pulmonary valve.
The valves are designed to control the direction of blood flow through the heart. The opening and closing of the heart valves produce the heart-beat sounds.
COMPLICATIONS
RHEUMATIC HEART DISEASE
During a first rheumatic fever attack, about half of people develop heart inflammation, but this does not always result in permanent damage. Most people with rheumatic fever recover fully after six weeks. In some cases, however, one or more of the heart's valves may be scarred (in particular mitral stenosis and aortic stenosis). Permanent heart damage due to rheumatic fever is known as rheumatic heart disease. In many cases, heart damage is not discovered until years later.
In rare cases of rheumatic fever, the inflammation causes so much damage to the heart muscle that it leads to heart failure. In other cases, a scarred heart valve may prevent adequate blood flow or not seal tightly. If there is serious impairment to the function of affected heart valves, surgery may be needed to repair or replace the damaged valve or valves.
OTHER COMPLICATIONS
Rheumatic fever can also affect these parts of the body:
- JOINTS. Often, several joints are affected with painful swelling, redness and sensation of heat.
- BRAIN. If acute rheumatic fever affects the brain, loss of coordination and uncontrolled movement of the limbs and face may occur. These movements are called chorea - from the Greek word "choreia," which means "choral dance." They are also sometimes called Sydenham's chorea, rheumatic chorea or St. Vitus' dance. Chorea occurs in about one in 10 rheumatic fever cases. Chorea usually subsides or disappears within weeks to months.
- SKIN. The disease can produce broad patches or, irregularly, round, faint pink or red areas on the skin (erythema marginatum). Lumps or nodules may occur beneath normal-appearing skin.
After one occurrence of rheumatic fever, the disease tends to recur. Long term effects of rheumatic fever can include:
- Heart failure.
- Skin disorders.
- Anemia.
- Endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining).
- Heart arrhythmias.
- Pericarditis (inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart).
- Sydenham's chorea (a disorder of the nervous system).
- Arthritis.
DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosis of rheumatic fever will likely involve a physical examination and questions about your symptoms. The physical exam may include:
- Checking the joints for pain and inflammation.
- Examining the skin for rashes or lumps.
- Listening to the heart for abnormal rhythms or murmurs.
- Doing a neurological exam to check for abnormal movements.
Your health care provider may recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check for abnormal rhythms. Electrocardiography involves attaching electrode patches to the skin to measure electrical impulses given off by the heart. The electrical impulses, which cause the heart muscle to contract, are recorded by an electrocardiograph machine. They typically are recorded in the form of waves, which are displayed on graph paper or on a monitor.
There is no lab test that can confirm rheumatic fever. Health care providers base a diagnosis of rheumatic fever on the presence of certain criteria. The most common major criteria are:
- Joint pain and swelling that moves from joint to joint.
- Inflammation of the heart.
Diagnosing rheumatic fever requires not only the presence of key signs and symptoms but also evidence of a recent strep infection. A blood sample may be taken to test for the presence of antibodies to streptococcal bacteria.
ASO TEST
Blood samples taken may be tested for recurrent strep infection, such as an ASO test (Antistreptolysin O titer - a blood test to measure antibodies against streptolysin O, a substance produced by Group A Streptococcus bacteria).
To perform this test, blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood. Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding. The blood is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. To prepare for the test, you should not eat for 6 hours before the test. When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
This test is used to detect prior infection by Group A Streptococcus, the bacteria responsible for diseases such as strep throat, glomerulonephritis, rheumatic fever, bacterial endocarditis, and scarlet fever. The ASO antibody may be found in the blood weeks or months after the primary infection has gone away.Normal Results: The ASO level is usually less than 160 Todd units per milliliter.
Abnormal results may be due to active streptococcal infection, bacterial endocarditis, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, rheumatic fever, or scarlet fever.
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others. Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include excessive bleeding, fainting or feeling light-headed, hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin, or infection (a slight risk anytime the skin is broken).
THROAT CULTURE
A throat culture may be taken by using a swab inside the throat and sending it to the lab for analysis and finding of any strep bacteria. It is painless and easy. However, it is possible by then, the throat culture test for strep will be negative. In that case, the only suggestion of strep may be you telling your health care provider about recent symptoms.
RHEUMATIC FEVER DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
T. Duckett Jones, MD, first published these criteria in 1944. They have been periodically revised by the American Heart Association in collaboration with other groups. Two major criteria, or one major and two minor criteria, when there is also evidence of a previous strep infection, support the diagnosis of rheumatic fever. Exceptions are chorea and indolent carditis, each of which by itself can indicate rheumatic fever.
Major Criteria - The mnemonic JONES is often used to recall the Major Criteria.
- Joints (Migratory Polyarthritis): A temporary migrating inflammation of the large joints, usually starting in the legs and migrating upwards.
- O [imagine heart-shaped O] (Carditis): Inflammation of the heart muscle which can manifest as congestive heart failure with shortness of breath, pericarditis with a rub, or a new heart murmur.
- Nodules (Subcutaneous Nodules - A form of Aschoff bodies): Painless, firm collections of collagen fibers on the back of the wrist, the outside elbow, and the front of the knees. These now occur infrequently.
- Erythema Marginatum: A long lasting rash that begins on the trunk or arms as macules and spreads outward to form a snakelike ring while clearing in the middle. This rash never starts on the face and is made worse with heat.
- Sydenham's Chorea (St. Vitus' dance): A characteristic series of rapid movements without purpose of the face and arms. This can occur very late in the disease.
An additional way to remember the major criteria is by the mnemonic: C.A.N.C.ERC: Carditis
A: Arthritis
N: Nodules (Sub-cutaneous)
C: Chorea
ER: Erythema Marginatum
Minor Criteria
- Fever: Temperature elevation.
- Arthralgia: Joint pain without swelling.
- Laboratory Abnormalities: Increased Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, increased C reactive protein, leukocytosis.
- Electrocardiogram Abnormalities: A prolonged PR interval.
- Evidence of Group A Strep Infection: Elevated or rising Antistreptolysin O titer, or DNAase, though by the time clinical illness begins, cultures for the streptococci bacterium will be negative.
- Previous rheumatic fever or inactive heart disease.
Other Signs & Symptoms
- Abdominal pain.
- Nosebleeds.
CONVENTIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT
MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE RHEUMATIC FEVER
The management of acute rheumatic fever is geared toward the reduction of inflammation with anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or corticosteroids. Individuals with positive cultures for strep throat should also be treated with antibiotics. Aspirin is the drug of choice and should be given at high doses of 100 mg/kg/day. One should watch for side effects like gastritis, salicylate poisoning etc. Steroids are reserved for cases where there is evidence of involvement of heart. The use of steroids may prevent further scarring of tissue and may prevent development of sequela such as Mitral stenosis. Monthly injections of Longacting Penicillin must be given for a period of 5 years in patients having one attack of Rheumatic fever. If there is evidence of carditis, the length of Penidure therapy may be up to 40 years. Another important cornerstone in treating rheumatic fever includes the continual use of low dose antibiotics (such as penicillin, sulfadiazine, or erythromycin) to prevent recurrence.
Infection: Patients with positive cultures for streptococcus pyogenes should be treated with penicillin as long as allergy is not present. This treatment will not alter the course of the acute disease.
Inflammation: Patients with significant symptoms may require corticosteroids. Salicylates are useful for pain.
Heart Failure: Some patients develop significant carditis which manifests as congestive heart failure. This requires the usual treatment for heart failure: diuretics and digoxin. Unlike normal heart failure, rheumatic heart failure responds well to corticosteroids.
DRUG THERAPY
People who test positive for strep throat should also be treated with antibiotics. You may have to take low doses of antibiotics (such as penicillin, sulfadiazine, or erythromycin) over the long term to prevent the disease from returning.
The goals of treatment for rheumatic fever are to relieve symptoms, destroy the group A streptococcus and prevent future infection. Treatment of rheumatic fever involves:
Antibiotics to treat the streptococcal infection and prevent recurrences. Your health care provider may prescribe penicillin or another antibiotic to eliminate any remaining strep bacteria in the body. Usually, additional antibiotics must be taken for several to many years to prevent additional attacks of rheumatic fever. Without continued antibiotic treatment, recurrence of rheumatic fever is common during the first three to five years after the initial infection.
Other medications to ease the symptoms of the disease. To reduce heart and joint inflammation, your health care provider may recommend specific doses of over-the-counter or prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. For severe heart inflammation, a corticosteroid medication, such as prednisone, can reduce the inflammation.
FOLLOW-UP & FURTHER PATIENT CARE
Rheumatic fever is likely to come back in people who do not take low-dose antibiotics continually, especially during the first 3 to 5 years after the first episode of the disease. Heart complications may be severe, particularly if the heart valves are involved.
HOLISTIC & NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
RECOMMENDATIONS
NUTRITIONAL THERAPY
Drink plenty of fresh juices and distilled or quality water.
Eat no solid food until the fever subsides and joint pain begins to ease. Then keep to a light diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables, yogurt, cottage cheese, and fruit juices.
Do not consume any caffeine, carbonated soft drinks, fried foods, processed or refined foods, salt, or sugar in any form during recovery period. These foods slow healing.
If antibiotics are prescribed, take acidophilus following antibiotic treatment to replace the needed "friendly" bacteria. Antibiotics may be necessary to combat the underlying Streptococcus infection and help prevent permanent heart damage. Do not take acidophilus at the same time as the antibiotics, however, or the antibiotics will kill the friendly bacteria.
Herbal Remedies: Acidophilus Supplement Powder, Non-Dairy, 3 oz. Bulk
Herbal Remedies: Acidophilus, 3 Billion, NOW Foods, 90 Tabs
Herbal Remedies: Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non-Dairy, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free, Apple Strawberry Flavor, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS
Get plenty of bed rest. This is vital for recovery.
Do not give aspirin to a child with a fever. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead.
If you are your child are experiencing symptoms of strep throat, see your health care provider to be tested and, if appropriate, treated. See "Symptoms" above for strep throat symptoms.
HOMEOPATHY
Use homeopathic treatments to ease symptoms. Homeopathic remedies that have been used to treat rheumatic fever include:
- Aconite.
Herbal Remedies: Aconite Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets
- Bryonia.
Herbal Remedies: Bryonia Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets
- Pulsatilla.
Herbal Remedies: Pulsatilla Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets
- Rhus toxicodendron (Rhus tox).
Herbal Remedies: Rhus Tox (Rhus Toxicodendron) Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets
Herbal Remedies: Rhus Tox, Hyland's Homeopathic, 6X, 160 Tabs
Herbal Remedies: Arnileve Multi-Action Sport Homeopathic, Natural Pain Relief, Nelsons Bach, 84 Pellets
CONSIDERATIONS
Massage therapy and mild exercise such as yoga can be helpful for preventing muscle atrophy during bed rest.
If you develop rheumatic heart disease, you may need surgery to repair the damage to the heart.
HERBS
Bayberry bark, Burdock root, Milk Thistle, Nettle, Pau D'Arco, Sage, and Yellow Dock purify the blood, fight infection, and aid in recuperation after the trauma of illness. Caution: Do not use sage if you suffer from any kind of seizure disorder.
Herbal Remedies: Bayberry Root Bark, Nature's Way, 475 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Burdock Root, Nature's Way, 540 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Burdock Root Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Thisilyn Milk Thistle Extract, Vegetarian, Nature's Way, 175 mg, 100 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Milk Thistle Seed Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Nettle Herb, Nature's Way, 435 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Nettle Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Extract, Incan LaPacho, 100% Natural, 4 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Tea, 48 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Sage Tea, Caffeine Free, Alvita Tea, 24 Bags
Herbal Remedies: Sage Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Yellow Dock Root, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Yellow Dock Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Birch leaves and Lobelia both help to reduce pain. Caution: Do not take lobelia internally on an ongoing basis.
Herbal Remedies: Lobelia Extract Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.
Catnip tea is a nerve tonic and is soothing and calming to children and adults, alike. It can be used as an enema to reduce fever.
Cordyceps, a Chinese herb, is beneficial for the heart. It can slow the heart rate, increase blood supply to the arteries and heart, and lower blood pressure.
Herbal Remedies: Cordyceps Cs-4, 400 mg, 90 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Cordyceps, Standardized 10% Cordycepic Acid, Nature's Way, 60 VCaps
Dandelion has a long history in the treatment of fever.
Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Tea, Organic, NOW Foods, 30 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Ginkgo Biloba can benefit the cardiovascular system by preventing the formation of free radicals. Use a Ginkgo extract containing 24 percent ginkgo flavone glycosides.
Herbal Remedies: Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Standardized to 24% Ginkgo Flavone Glycosides, Nature's Way, 60 mg, 120 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Ginkgold MAX, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Vegetarian, Nature's Way, 120 mg, 60 Tabs
Goldenseal is a natural antibiotic. Caution: Do not take Goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, do not use it during pregnancy, and use it with caution if you are allergic to ragweed.
Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Root, Nature's Way, 570 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea-Goldenseal Supplement, Vegetarian, Herbal Remedies USA, 1,000 mg, 60 Liquid VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea-Goldenseal Tincture, Nature's Way, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz.
Hawthorn Leaf, Myrrh gum, and Red Clover detoxify and de-acidify the blood.
Herbal Remedies: Hawthorn Extract Standardized, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 90 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Hawthorn Berry Tincture (Heart Herb), 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Myrrh Gum Supplement Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Herb, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Tea, Alvita Tea, 30 Bags
Wintergreen Oil can be applied to the chest in compress form to relieve pain. If using essential oil, dilute with a carrier oil, such as Sweet Almond Oil. See Mountain Rose Bulk Carrier Oils for a full list of all natural carrier oils.
Herbal Remedies: Wintergreen Essential Oil, 100% Pure & Natural, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended dosages are for persons over the age of 18 years. For children between 12 and 17 years old, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount. For children between the ages of 6 and 12, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for children under 6 years old, use 1/4 the recommended amount.
RHEUMATIC FEVER SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Information, supplements and products for rheumatic fever, an inflammatory condition that can affect the joints, heart, nervous system and skin.
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound), Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 60 VCaps
NOW Foods AHCC is a rich source of polysaccharides such as beta glucan 1,3 and activated hemicellulose produced by enzymatic modification of organic medicinal mushrooms, including shiitake.Barlean's Flax Oil, 100% Highest Lignan Content, Organic, Pesticide & Herbicide Free, 16 fl. oz.
Barlean's Flax Oil contains 25% more lignan bearing flax particulate than competing brands. Barlean's Flax Oil is one of the Nation's Top-10 Best Selling Health Products.Bayberry Root Bark, Nature's Way, 475 mg, 100 Caps
Bayberry Root Bark is often used for its astringent properties and can boost the immune system.Black Seed Theramune Ultimate With Garlic, 100 Caps
Promotes healthy circulation, useful for arthritis and cardiovascular & respiratory support. It also supports digestion and is a natural remedy for ulcers. Garlic is known to lower cholesterol naturally.Burdock Root Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
An herbal treatment for psoriasis and a promising HIV herb, Burdock is also a blood purifier.Chondroitin Sulfate & Glucosamine Sulfate, Bovine, 400 mg/500 mg, 60 Caps
Chondroitin Sulfate & Glucosamine Sulfate Capsules are a combination of chondroitin and glucosamine, two powerful nutrients that help to promote optimum support for joints and cartilage function, strength and mobility.Colostrum, 480 mg, 120 Caps
Colostrum known for its powerful healing factors offers optimal health. Colostrum research proves a wide spectrum of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and accessory immune factors.CoQ10, NOW Foods, 400 mg, 60 Softgels
As an active contributor to all aspects of cellular function, coq10 has become universally regarded as one of the most vital nutrients ever made available to the public.CoQ10, Vegetarian Coenzyme, NOW Foods, 30 mg, 60 VCaps
A coenzyme for several key steps in the production of energy within each cell, and an antioxidant important in its clinical effects. It is these two properties make CoQ10 one of the best supplements available today.CoQ10 With Vitamin E, NOW Foods, 200 mg, 90 Lozenges
Our new orange flavored chewable CoQ10 200 mg is formulated with 100 IU of Vitamin E in a base of non-genetically engineered Soy Lecithin.Cordyceps Cs-4, 400 mg, 90 VCaps
Clinically, Cordyceps is used to build and support immune function in various immune compromised conditions including chronic fatigue, cancer, and respiratory conditions.Dandelion Tea, Organic, NOW Foods, 30 Tea Bags
Dandelion tea is warm and soothing, and acts as a blood cleanser and gentle diuretic and is 100% Organic.DMG Supplement, N,N Dimethyl Glycine, NOW Foods, 125 mg, 100 Caps
NOW Foods' DMG Supplement is a methylated amino acid found in all cells. DMG is an antioxidant and methyl donor that has a number of beneficial effects. It has shown to have potential in increasing immune response to the flu and salmonella.DMSO Liquid (Dimethylsulfoxide), 99.9% Pure Concentrate, 8 fl. oz.
This pure liquid DMSO is used for various applications. DMSO is often mixed with other extracts to enhance absorption.Garlic Oil Tincture, Alcohol-Free, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz.
Garlic oil is often used to soothe the ear and as an antibiotic but most often used as a food and herb and also to lower serum cholesterol and blood pressure and to improve circulation as well as possibly inhibiting the growth of ulcer causing bacteria.Garlic Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
The Europeans use garlic as an all-around treatment for preventing atherosclerosis, the cause of heart disease and strokes.Goldenseal Herb, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 180 Caps
Goldenseal herb (hydrastis canadensis), a perennial wild native American herb, is also called Yellow Root. Native Americans used Goldenseal both internally and externally and also derived a dye from the root. Golden Seal is a very important traditional herb.Immune-RX, Immune System Supplement, Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, 60 Tabs
Immune-RX, Immune System Supplement, was formulated to strengthen your immune system because Immune-Rx offers the most powerful protection against the elements.Immune System Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
The Immune System Formula can be used for AIDS, Auto-immune Diseases, and Cancer.Joints With Glucosamine HCl, Joint Supplement, Nature's Way, 60 Caps
Joints with Glucosamine HCL Joint Supplement represents the powerful synergy of current scientific research and traditional herbal medicine.Joint Relief Formula #1, 90 Caps
The Cadillac of our Joint Formulas, Joint Relief Formula #1 is recommended and sold by Chiropractors since 1997.Kombucha Tea, 100% Organic, Original Flavor, 64 fl. oz
Kombucha's benefits to the physical body vary widely. It is said to enhance the immune system. By detoxifying the body, kombucha makes it unlikely for disease causing bacteria and viruses to find a suitable growth environment. This results in a healthier physical body!Kombucha 2000, Concentrated Kombucha, 30 Caps
Concentrated Kombucha Capsules are new to the market, but Kombucha 2000 is one of the very first successful kombucha tea producers in the United States.L-Carnitine, Stable Tartrate Form, NOW Foods, 250 mg, 30 Caps
Pure L-Carnitine is an amino acid that normally attracts water which can cause it to deteriorate rapidly. We use a tartrate form to help ensure that NOW L-Carnitine maintains stability and full potency.L-Methionine, Plus B-6, NOW Foods, 500 mg / 10 mg, 100 Caps
L-Methionine is an essential sulfur amino acid. The body cannot produce L-Methionine, which must be obtained from food or supplement sources.Mangosteen Juice, Kosher & Vegetarian, Dynamic Health, 32 fl. oz.
Dynamic Health Mangosteen Juice is rich in the Xanthone Antioxidant, and Mangosteen Juice contains naturally occurring minerals, enzymes, vitamins, antioxidants, phytonutrients and bioflavonoids and stimulates your body to boost energy.Nettle Herb, Nature's Way, 435 mg, 100 Caps
Nettle herb from Nature's Way is wild harvested, gently dried and ground to a usable form and encapsulated. Nettle herb contains no chemicals, additives or artificial coloring.Nettle Leaf (Urtica Dioica) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica), from ancient Greece to the present, nettle has been documented for its use in treating coughs, tuberculosis, and arthritis, asthma and in stimulating hair growth.Nettle Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Nettle leaf has become a popular treatment of allergies (hay fever) and it can improve goiter, inflammatory conditions, and arthritis.Odorless Garlic Supplement, NOW Foods, 50 mg, 250 SoftGels
Odorless Garlic supplement is extracted from Allum sativum and is a specially made Japanese product. Our Odorless Garlic yields high amounts of Scordiin, a unique sulfur compound which may be responsible for many of garlic's renowned benefits.Pau D'Arco Liquid Extract, Incan LaPacho, 100% Natural Herbal, 4 fl. oz.
The Incan Lapacho Co. Pau d'Arco extract is made from the inner barks of Plantation Grown Purple Lapacho trees found on or near the ancient Inca Trail.Pau D'Arco Tea, Incan LaPacho, 48 Tea Bags
Pau d'Arco tea has shown that it may support the bodies own ability to ward off many diseases.Thisilyn, Milk Thistle Extract, Vegetarian, Nature's Way, 175 mg, 100 VCaps
Nature's Way Thisilyn, Milk Thistle Extract, is especially recommended for those who drink, smoke, or are exposed to environmental pollutants.Vital Yew (Pacific Yew), 300 mg, 180 Caps
Pacific Yew tree has not only been intensively used and analyzed for its remarkable anti-cancer properties, but has also been historically utilized in its natural form for promoting relief from a variety of health concerns including colds, viral, bacterial and fungal infections, flu, rheumatism, sciatica, kidney problems, lung problems and more.Vitamin A, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 10,000 IU, 100 Softgels
Nature's Way vitamin A is 100% natural from fish liver oil. It contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.Vitamin B-100 Complex With Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps
A complete Vitamin B complex of 8 essential vitamins. B Vitamins are precursors of coenzymes involved in the conversion of cellular energy, manufacture of hormones and proteins, and repair and maintenance of nerve structures.Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF RHEUMATIC FEVER SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS:
Herbal Remedies: Rheumatic Fever Information
Herbal Remedies: Rheumatic Fever Supplements, Information & Products
Herbal Remedies: Strep Throat Supplements, Information & Products
NOTIFY YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or your child has symptoms of strep throat or scarlet fever, or has had a recent sore throat and high fever and is now experiencing difficulty breathing or chest pain, see a health care provider or seek emergency room care. Although most of the time strep throat does not lead to rheumatic fever, you can usually prevent rheumatic fever by treating strep throat with antibiotics.
You have unusual or unexplained symptoms. Some therapies, both conventional and alternative, may produce side effects during treatment.
Your symptoms worsen, despite treatment.
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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