What causes myocarditis?
The exact cause of myocarditis is still unknown. The following are possible causes or conditions that may increase your chance of having myocarditis: • Infection: This is the most common cause of myocarditis. Infections are caused by germs, such as viruses, parasites, or bacteria. • Alcohol: Drinking alcohol too much and too often. Alcohol is found in beer, wine, liquor (such as vodka or whiskey), and other adult drinks. • Illegal drugs: Street drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines. • Immune system: The immune system is the part of your body that fights infection. Problems with the immune system sometimes make your body attack even its own cells. These problems include diabetes mellitus (high blood sugar), systemic lupus erythromatosus (SLE), or sarcoidosis. • Medicines: Antibiotics, vaccines for small pox, and certain medicines for depression and cancer. • Physical agents or toxins: Being around certain chemicals a lot may cause myocarditis. These chemicals may include arsenic, lithi
