Myocarditis Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is myocarditis usually characterized as?
Benign and self-limiting
Myocarditis typically resolves on its own without treatment.
What can widespread inflammation in myocarditis lead to?
Extensive destruction of heart muscle cells
This destruction impairs the heart’s ability to pump effectively.
What are potential consequences of severe myocarditis?
- Right Ventricular Failure (RVF)
- Left Ventricular Failure (LVF)
- Dysrhythmia
- Death
These outcomes can occur due to impaired heart function.
What condition can myocarditis potentially lead to?
Dilated cardiomyopathy
This is a condition characterized by an enlarged heart and reduced function.
What are the common pathogens that can cause myocarditis?
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Parasites
Viral infections are the most common cause of myocarditis.
What is the most common cause of myocarditis?
Viral infection
Viral infections account for the majority of myocarditis cases.
What are other causes of myocarditis besides viral infections?
- Rheumatic fever
- Exposure to chemical poisons
- Chronic alcoholism
- Radiation therapy for cancer
High doses of radiation to the chest can lead to myocarditis.
True or False: The cause of myocarditis is always known.
False
In many cases, the cause of myocarditis remains unknown.
What are common initial symptoms of myocarditis?
Flulike symptoms including fatigue, decreased appetite, mild shortness of breath, joint and muscle aches and pains, or fever
These symptoms often do not prompt the patient to seek medical care.
How long after the initial symptoms do cardiac symptoms usually appear in myocarditis?
10 to 14 days
This delay often leads patients to seek medical attention during this period.
What common complaint might a patient with myocarditis report?
Palpitations
Palpitations are frequently reported by patients experiencing myocarditis.
What is a common description of chest discomfort in myocarditis?
Sharp, stabbing pain in the center of the chest
This description can complicate differentiation from acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
What symptom may make it difficult to differentiate myocarditis from ACS?
Squeezing chest discomfort
This symptom can resemble those associated with an acute coronary syndrome.
What are common vital sign abnormalities in myocarditis?
Tachycardia and tachypnea
These conditions are frequently observed in patients with myocarditis.
What findings might be seen on an ECG for a patient with myocarditis?
Low-voltage QRS complexes and/or ST-segment elevation
These ECG findings are indicative of myocarditis.
What types of dysrhythmias are common in myocarditis?
Atrial or ventricular dysrhythmia
Sinus tachycardia is the most common rhythm observed.
What is the most common rhythm seen in myocarditis?
Sinus tachycardia
This rhythm is frequently observed in patients with myocarditis.
What types of AV block may be seen in myocarditis?
Second- or third-degree AV block
These blocks can occur alongside other abnormalities like LBBB or RBBB.
What signs may indicate heart failure in a patient with myocarditis?
JVD, crackles, ascites, and peripheral edema
These findings suggest the presence of heart failure.
List some differential diagnoses to consider for myocarditis.
- ACS
- Aortic dissection
- Esophageal perforation, rupture, or tear
- Heart failure
- Kawasaki disease
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary disease
These conditions must be differentiated from myocarditis during diagnosis.
What is the main focus of prehospital care?
Supportive care
Prehospital care primarily aims to support the patient until further medical assistance is available.
What should be done to ensure patient comfort in prehospital care?
Allow the patient to assume a position of comfort
This helps in reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of safety.
What is the first step in establishing intravenous access?
Establish an IV line
An IV line is essential for administering medications and fluids.
Which monitoring device should be applied in prehospital care?
Cardiac monitor
This device helps in tracking the patient’s heart activity.
