Myocarditis

Myocarditis

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart muscle which is usually caused by a viral infection, rarely by bacteria. The disease represents a side effect of a general infection or occurs as a complication of an infectious disease. The clinical course is highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic or mild (majority of cases) to fulminant cases (rare). Symptoms such as fatigue, weakness or palpitations are usually associated with an infection. Athletes with a proven myocarditis should refrain from sports activity for three to six months.