Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) share common symptoms but are two separate conditions requiring specific treatment. Rheumatic Fever is caused by the same bacteria that causes Group A strep infection (strep throat). Sometimes, symptoms can occur outside of the throat, including temporary inflammation throughout the body. You may experience joint pain, swelling, and fever. If left untreated, the infection can affect the heart. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition, m