Expert Cardiac Care by Dr. M. Sudhakar Rao
Consultant Interventional Cardiologist | Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road

Rheumatic Heart Disease is a chronic heart condition caused by permanent damage to the heart valves, following one or more episodes of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) — an inflammatory disease that can occur after untreated or poorly treated streptococcal throat infection.

At Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Dr. M. Sudhakar Rao offers expert evaluation, diagnosis, and long-term management of RHD to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

What Causes Rheumatic Heart Disease?

• RHD typically begins with rheumatic fever, an autoimmune response to a Group A Streptococcus infection (like strep throat or scarlet fever).

• The body’s immune response mistakenly attacks heart valves — especially the mitral and aortic valves — leading to valvular stenosis or regurgitation over time.

Symptoms of Rheumatic Heart Disease

Symptoms often appear years after the initial fever:

• Shortness of breath (especially with exertion or lying down)

• Fatigue

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

• Chest pain or tightness

• Swelling in legs or feet

• Recurrent fever or sore throat (especially in children)

Diagnosis at Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road

Dr. Sudhakar Rao may perform:

• Echocardiography (ECHO) – to detect valve abnormalities

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – to check rhythm and strain

• Chest X-ray – to assess heart size and fluid in lungs

• Throat swab and blood tests – to confirm recent streptococcal infection

• Cardiac MRI or CT – in advanced cases or surgical planning

Complications if Left Untreated

• Heart failure

• Atrial fibrillation (AF)

• Stroke

• Endocarditis

• Permanent valve damage requiring replacement

Treatment Options

Medical Management

• Antibiotics to prevent further strep infections (long-term prophylaxis)

• Anti-inflammatory medications for rheumatic fever symptoms

• Diuretics, beta-blockers, or ACE inhibitors for heart failure symptoms

• Anticoagulants if there’s AF or risk of stroke

Interventional or Surgical Treatment

If valve damage is severe:

• Balloon valvotomy

• Valve repair or replacement (mechanical or bioprosthetic valves)

Why Consult Dr. M. Sudhakar Rao?

• Over 15 years of experience in cardiovascular disease and valvular heart management

• Expertise in interventional and structural heart procedures

• International credentials: FACC (USA), FESC (Europe), FSCAI (USA)

• Patient-first approach, especially for complex conditions like RHD

• Comprehensive care including diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and follow-up

Early Diagnosis = Better Outcomes

Rheumatic heart disease is preventable and manageable. If you or your child has had frequent sore throats or unexplained heart symptoms, consult Dr. M. Sudhakar Rao for a complete evaluation at Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road.

Take action before it leads to serious complications. Contact us for the best Rheumatic Heart Disease Treatment in Sarjapur Road.