A disease that can result from improperly treated strep throat or scarlet fever.

Rheumatic fever is a complication of improperly treated strep throat or scarlet fever. It's caused by Group A streptococcus bacteria. The condition causes swelling, called inflammation, in the heart, joints, skin and central nervous system. It may lead to heart valve problems and heart failure.

Symptoms include fever, chest pain, extreme tiredness and swollen, painful, and tender joints. Symptoms may come and go or change.

Treatment involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria and medicines to ease pain and swelling. Some people need antibiotics for many years.