Patient discussions

Patient instruction depends on individual patient characteristics. Universal limitation of salt and water intake for volume and blood pressure management is recommended for all patients with myocarditis. Home blood pressure measurement and daily weight recordings with frequent communication with the general practitioner are ideal.

Patients should be advised to avoid strenuous exercise and competitive sports for 3-6 months after diagnosis.[15][56]​ However, excessive sedentary behaviour should also be avoided, and patients can generally continue the activities of daily living.[56] After 3-6 months, return to sports is permitted if symptoms have resolved and follow-up tests are normal. See Monitoring.

Patients with a history of myocarditis should be encouraged to abstain from alcohol, although the effects of modest alcohol consumption on non-alcohol-related cardiomyopathy are unknown.

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