Myocarditis

Overview

Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle, usually caused by a viral infection but sometimes triggered by autoimmune disease, medications or toxins. Inflammation can weaken the heart’s pumping ability and disrupt its electrical system, leading to chest pain, breathlessness or dangerous arrhythmias.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you’ll receive consultant‑led assessment, rapid blood testing, on‑site MRI and echocardiography, plus structured rehabilitation and lifestyle support—everything arranged in one calm, private setting.

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Why Early Diagnosis Matters

• Reduces the risk of heart failure and life‑threatening arrhythmias
• Guides safe return to work, driving and sport after inflammation settles
• Prevents long‑term scarring that can impair heart function
• Ensures blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle factors are controlled to protect future heart and brain health

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Symptoms You Might Notice

• Chest tightness or pressure, sometimes sharp and worse on breathing in
• Shortness of breath at rest or with light exertion
• Palpitations, fluttering or irregular heartbeats
• Unexplained fatigue, dizziness or fainting
• Swollen ankles or sudden weight gain (fluid retention)
• Low‑grade fever, recent flu‑like illness or persistent cough

Call 999 immediately if you have crushing chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting or stroke‑like symptoms (facial droop, arm weakness, speech difficulty).

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Common Causes And Risk Factors

• Viral infections (e.g., Coxsackie, influenza, SARS‑CoV‑2)
• Autoimmune conditions (e.g., lupus, sarcoidosis)
• Certain medications or recreational drugs
• Excessive alcohol use or toxic exposures
• Recent vaccination or immunotherapy (rare)
• Underlying cardiomyopathies or genetic predisposition

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When To Book An Assessment

Phone 01295 252 281 if you:

• Have persistent chest discomfort, palpitations or breathlessness after a recent infection
• Are an athlete needing medical clearance to return to training post‑myocarditis
• Notice new ankle swelling, fatigue or exercise intolerance
• Have been told you have elevated cardiac markers (e.g., troponin) and want specialist input

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How We Diagnose And Monitor Myocarditis

1. Consultant Cardiology Review – detailed symptom timeline, medication check and examination in our Cardiology Service (/departments/cardiology/).
2. Rapid Laboratory Tests – troponin, CRP/ESR, full blood count, viral serology and kidney/liver profiles via our Blood‑Testing Service (/diagnostics/blood-tests/), typically back within 24 hours.
3. On‑Site Echocardiography & MRI – echo assesses heart function and valves; cardiac MRI in our Imaging Centre (/departments/imaging/) identifies inflammation and scarring.
4. Rhythm Monitoring – 24‑hour Holter or event recorder if palpitations or blackouts occur.
5. Same‑Day CT Referral (If Needed) – CT angiography at our sister site, The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, when coronary disease must be excluded.
6. Structured Follow‑Up – imaging and clinical reviews (often at 3, 6 and 12 months) to confirm recovery and guide exercise reintroduction.

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Treatment And Ongoing Support

Medical Management

• Anti‑inflammatory strategies where appropriate (guided by your cardiologist)
• Heart‑failure medications (ACE inhibitors/ARBs, beta‑blockers) if pumping function is reduced
• Anti‑arrhythmic therapies or anticoagulation when arrhythmias or clots are a risk
• Careful guidance on activity restriction during the healing phase

Rehabilitation & Lifestyle

• Supervised cardiac rehabilitation through our Rehabilitation Service for a graded, safe return to exercise
• Nutrition and weight management with the Dietetic Team
• Smoking cessation, alcohol moderation and sleep optimisation with help from our Private GP Service
• Stress‑management and psychological support if anxiety about heart health persists

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• Consultant‑delivered cardiology clinics with appointments usually available within one week
• Echocardiography, MRI and blood tests available on site for quick answers
• Integrated dietetics, rehabilitation and GP services—no need to travel between providers
• Seamless links to our sister hospital for CT and to regional cardiac centres for advanced procedures
• Free parking, flexible appointment times and a tranquil environment

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Myocarditis Be Cured?
Most people recover fully, especially when diagnosed and treated early. Some are left with a small scar or reduced function, which we monitor and manage.

When Can I Exercise Again?
Usually after inflammatory markers, MRI findings and cardiac function normalise—often at least 3–6 months. Our team will give you a personalised timeline.

Will I Need Long‑Term Medication?
If heart function returns to normal, medicines may be tapered. Persistent dysfunction or arrhythmias often require ongoing therapy.

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Protect Your Heart, Recover With Confidence

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to arrange your myocarditis assessment and personalised recovery plan.