【Major Points】

1. Early myocarditis may cause cold-like or digestive symptoms.
2. Treatment may include medication or surgery.
3. Preventing infection and improving immunity are the principles of home health care.

What is myocarditis?

Myocarditis is an inflammatory response of the myocardial cells. It is usually caused by infections (such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites), toxins, autoimmune diseases, or allergic reactions to medications.

What are the symptoms of myocarditis?

Myocarditis commonly presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle soreness, fatigue, chest pain, and arrhythmia. The initial symptoms of this disease resemble those of a cold and gastrointestinal issues, making them easily overlooked. If not addressed promptly, it could lead to heart failure. 

How is myocarditis treated?

1. Medication treatment:The doctor will start with antiviral medications. If a bacterial infection is detected, antibiotics will be prescribed. If symptoms of heart failure develop, the doctor may also prescribe heart stimulants, diuretics, or blood pressure medications, depending on the condition.
2. Surgical treatment:If medication does not effectively improve heart failure, the doctor may use extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to support the heart. In severe cases, a heart transplant may be considered.
   

How to care for myocarditis?

1. Prevent infections: Especially prevent colds and gastrointestinal infections, reduce visits to public places during outbreaks, and it is best to wear masks and wash hands frequently.
2.  Adequate rest: Avoid excessive fatigue and vigorous exercise, which can put a strain on the heart and worsen the condition. During acute episodes, bed rest should be taken for 2 to 4 weeks; if severe, a rest period of 2 to 3 months is recommended. Maintain a normal daily routine, and reduce staying up late and social engagements.
3. Enhance immunity: Maintain good health, ensure a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, rest well, and choose appropriate exercise to strengthen the body.
4. Dietary aspects: Increase intake of high-calorie, high-protein, and high-fiber foods, while avoiding spicy and fried foods.
5. If there are recurrent upper respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms, along with wheezing, chest pain, and arrhythmias, seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid missing the opportunity for early treatment. 
   
   

Reference:

1. Basso, C. (2022). Myocarditis. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(16), 1488 -1500. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra2114478
2. Gu, A. J., & Huang, P. F. (2024). Intensive care experience of a patient with myocarditis induced by mRNA vaccine. VGH Nursing, 41(3), 278-285. https://www.airitilibrary.com/Article/Detail/02584727-N202410190007-00009
3. Lee, Y. N., Lin, P.C., & Huang L.C.(2022).Nursing experiences of intensive care for an influenza patient with acute myocarditis. Leadership Nursing, 23(1), 49-62.  https://doi.org/10.29494/LN.202203_23(1).0005
4. Olejniczak, M., Schwartz, M., Webber, E., Shaffer, A., & Perry, T. E. (2020). Viral myocarditis—Incidence, diagnosis and management. Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia, 34(6), 1591-1601. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jvca.2019.12.052