IX: Diseases of the circulatory system

I05-I09: Chronic rheumatic heart diseases

Chronic rheumatic heart diseases are long-term conditions that affect the heart and are caused by rheumatic fever. This group of diseases generally arises following an episode of streptococcal throat infection that didn't receive adequate treatment, leading to rheumatic fever, which then potentially damages the heart valves. Damage to the heart caused by such diseases can be shown through several symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue, even without strenuous activities. The progression of these conditions varies widely based on the extent and severity of the initial valve damage and can result in conditions like heart failure and stroke. These diseases primarily affect the cardiovascular system, the system responsible for circulating blood throughout the body and supplying it with oxygen and nutrients.