Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

Do I have myocarditis?

January 2, 2015 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Hello,

On New Year's morning, I woke up with a slight sore throat and felt like I was getting a cold. My nose was also a bit congested. However, both symptoms disappeared throughout the day and I felt completely normal, so I went out to party as usual in the evening.

This morning, I realized that despite having slept long enough, I am quite tired and exhausted. I slept restlessly (woke up multiple times and tossed in bed), but it should have been a total of 8 hours.

Now I am afraid that I might have myocarditis. I am an extreme hypochondriac and tend to worry quickly, so I googled it and it said that fatigue is a symptom. And among the causes is stress from not fully recovering from a cold. I didn't stress my heart by exercising, but maybe by partying and drinking quite a bit, I must admit.

As I mentioned, I wasn't really sick, didn't have a cold. I just felt like I was getting one. But it didn't last long. Is that enough to cause myocarditis?

I know I should normally see a doctor instead of asking this question online. But the internet says that myocarditis can't be easily diagnosed or ruled out.

Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Dear questioner,

Something like what you described is usually not enough to develop a severe myocarditis.

Most cases of myocarditis occur after a viral infection. In addition to this, there must also be a sufficient number of viruses present, which is typically the case after battling a severe flu for 14 days. In this case, the infection can spread to the heart muscle. Furthermore, fatigue can have many other causes as well.

If you are still somewhat of a "hypochondriac," I recommend getting a 12-lead ECG from your primary care physician at your next appointment. If nothing is found within 3-4 days, then there is likely nothing to worry about.

If you have already done some research, you are probably aware of the treatment: simply avoid any major physical exertion until your overall condition improves.

Overall, what you have described generally does not seem to be indicative of myocarditis.

Best wishes for the new year,
Dr. R. Berg