Myocarditis (inflamed heart muscle)

Overview

Myocarditis can follow viral infections and, rarely, mRNA vaccines, mostly in young men.

Most cases are mild and heal fully with rest.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Chest pain after a virus

Less common

• Shortness of breath
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Tiredness
• Leg swelling

When to get medical care

Causes

Virus.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Young men

Possible complications

• Heart failure: From weakened heart muscle
• Sudden cardiac arrest: Rare, from heart rhythm problems

Diagnosis

Tests.

Treatment

Rest.

Self-care

• Avoid hard exercise until cleared
• Keep follow-up heart tests
• Avoid sports until cleared

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Rest fully after viral illness before intense exercise
• Keep up with vaccines

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a cardiologist (heart doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• American Heart Association: Plain-language heart information and a support network for patients.
• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Teen and young adult males: Rare reactions after mRNA vaccines.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover.

Most recover in weeks to months.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• When can I return to sports?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Myocarditis (inflamed heart muscle)