What Is The Most Common Cause Of Myocarditis?

Myocarditis refers to a condition of the heart in which the myocardium is inflamed. This condition affects the electrical system of your heart.

The cause of myocarditis is not known most of the times. Viral infection is thought to be the most common cause of myocarditis. There are many other possible causes, but myocarditis is a very rare condition. The possible causes may include-

• Viral infection is thought to be the most common cause of myocarditis.
• These infections may include the common cold, hepatitis B and C viruses and herpes simplex virus
• Gastric infections, mononucleosis, rubella may also be responsible for causing myocarditis
• Myocarditis is also commonly seen in people affected with HIV and AIDS

Many bacteria like staphylococcus, streptococcus, bacteria causing diphtheria and lyme disease etc. can cause myocarditis

Parasites like toxoplasma and Trypanosoma cruzi can cause myocarditis

• Fungal infections like mold, candida, aspergillus, histoplasma etc. can cause myocarditis
• This is seen specifically in people with compromised immune systems.⁽¹⁾

Myocarditis may also occur as a result of exposure to certain other factors. These may include-

• Some drugs or medications that may cause allergies or toxic reactions may cause myocarditis
• These drugs include the ones used in treatment of cancer, antibiotics, anti-seizure medications and some other drugs used in substance abuse, like cocaine

Certain hazardous chemicals like carbon monoxide and radioactive substances may cause myocarditis

Other medical conditions like lupus, Takayasu’s arteritis may also lead to myocarditis⁽¹⁾

Mild cases of myocarditis get better with rest and/or treatment. Severe forms of myocarditis may lead to a more serious damage to the heart which may result in certain complications. These may include-

If left untreated, myocarditis can cause a permanent damage to the heart muscle thereby making it so weak that it cannot perform its function of pumping blood efficiently
Such severe cases may require VADs or ventricular assist devices to facilitate the pumping of blood

• Because of inability to pump blood due to weakened heart muscle, blood gets pooled in your heart
• This pooled blood can form clots
• If this clot blocks any of the heart arteries, it may result in a cardiac arrest or heart attack
• If this clot travels to an artery that goes to the brain, it may lead to a stroke

Rapid or abnormal heart rhythms can result due to weakened heart muscle

• Some dangerous arrythmias can make your heart stop beating suddenly, also known as sudden cardiac arrest
• If not treated on time, it can prove to be extremely fatal⁽¹⁾

Myocarditis cannot be prevented by a certain method. However, taking certain precautions can help in preventing infections that may be a probable cause of myocarditis-

• Avoiding people who are suffering from viral, bacterial, parasitic, fungal infections. Also, if you are sick it is better to not expose others by following proper quarantine measures
• Following a good hygiene routine like washing hands frequently, taking a shower daily, changing daily into fresh clothes, etc. can help in preventing infections
• Practicing safe sex and avoiding multiple partners can help in keeping away from serious infections like HIV-AIDS
• Covering your body properly while being exposed to a tick-infested area can ensure protection against tick bites and infections
• Getting vaccinated as per the guidelines can ensure you stay protected against various infections like rubella, influenza, and other such diseases that are probable causes of myocarditis⁽¹⁾

A viral infection is thought to be the most common cause of myocarditis. However, there are many probable causes of myocarditis which include various other bacterial, fungal, parasitic infections. However, though there are many probable causes, a condition like myocarditis is quite a rare occurrence.

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