Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, joints, blood vessels, and nervous system following a streptococcal infection of the throat or skin. It is most common in children ages 5-15. Symptoms may include fever, joint pain and swelling, involuntary movements (chorea), and heart valve damage. Diagnosis is based on symptoms occurring after a streptococcal infection along with findings on physical exam and tests like echocardiogram and electrocardiogram. Treatment focuses on antibiotics to prevent recurrence as well as medications for symptoms like joint pain, heart failure, and chorea. Damage to heart valves may require long-term antibiotics or valve surgery.