Symptoms

If you're in the early stages of myocarditis, you might have mild symptoms such as chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeats, or shortness of breath. Some people with early-stage myocarditis don't have any symptoms.

The signs and symptoms of myocarditis vary, depending on the cause of the disease. Common myocarditis signs and symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Rapid or abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmias)
• Shortness of breath, at rest or during activity
• Fluid buildup with swelling of your legs, ankles and feet
• Fatigue
• Other signs and symptoms of a viral infection such as a headache, body aches, joint pain, fever, a sore throat or diarrhea

Sometimes, myocarditis symptoms may be similar to a heart attack. If you are having unexplained chest pain and shortness of breath, seek emergency medical help.

Myocarditis in children

When children develop myocarditis, they might have signs and symptoms including:

• Fever
• Fainting
• Breathing difficulties
• Rapid breathing
• Chest pain
• Rapid or abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)

When to see a doctor

Contact your doctor if you have symptoms of myocarditis, particularly chest pain and shortness of breath. Symptoms of myocarditis can resemble a heart attack. Get emergency medical help if you have unexplained chest pain and shortness of breath.

If you've had an infection, watch for the symptoms of myocarditis and let your doctor know if they occur. If you have severe symptoms, go to the emergency room or call for emergency medical help.