On this page, you will find everything you need to know about infective endocarditis.
What is Infective Endocarditis?
Infective endocarditis, or bacterial endocarditis, is a rare and serious infection that affects the inner lining of the heart (the endocardium).
What are the Symptoms of Infective Endocarditis?
The most common symptoms of endocarditis are usually those of infection, such as:
A high fever.
Chills.
Night sweats.
Headache.
Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
Cough.
Fatigue.
Muscle and joint pain.
Other possible symptoms may include:
Small red, brown, or purple spots on the skin from bleeding, which may be difficult to see on brown and black skin.
Narrow, brownish-red streaks of bleeding that occur under the nails.
Painful red lumps on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, which can be difficult to see on brown and black skin.
Non-painful red spots on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, which are also difficult to see on brown and black skin.
A feeling of confusion.
Loss of appetite.
Unintentional weight loss.
Symptoms of endocarditis may develop rapidly over a few days (acute endocarditis) or slowly over a few weeks or months (subacute endocarditis).
What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Infective Endocarditis?
Endocarditis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, and bacteria in the bloodstream are more likely to infect the heart if it has already sustained damage. Bacteria can reach the heart through:
Through the mouth, after dental procedures or even brushing the teeth.
Surgery or other medical procedures.
The skin, digestive system, or urinary tract.
The chances of contracting the disease increase with the presence of risk factors such as:
Surgery or other procedures in a hospital or clinic.
Heart valve problems.
An artificial heart or pacemaker.
Dental and gum issues.
Intravenous drug use or intravenous medication.
A weakened immune system.
Endocarditis is considered a rare condition, even among those at higher risk, such as:
Older adults, where it is more prevalent.
Children born with congenital heart diseases.
It affects men more frequently than women.
How is Infective Endocarditis Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of infective endocarditis involves medical history, clinical examination, and specific tests as determined by the attending physician, such as:
Multiple blood tests are performed to check organ health, look for signs of infection, and confirm the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream.
An echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart and one of the most critical tests for this condition, is performed along with other heart diagnostics like an electrocardiogram, among others.
What are the Treatment Methods for Infective Endocarditis?
Treatment involves several procedures, as the situation demands, and may include:
Antibiotics, which are the primary treatment for endocarditis, initially administered intravenously (IV).
Some people with endocarditis may require surgery to remove infected tissue and reconstruct or replace damaged heart valves.
How Can Infective Endocarditis Be Prevented?
Preventive measures against endocarditis include:
Observing good hygiene practices in hospitals and health clinics.
Maintaining good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of bacteria entering through the mouth.
Those at risk of endocarditis should take preventive antibiotics before dental procedures, after consulting their treating physician.
What are the Complications of Infective Endocarditis?
Endocarditis is a serious condition, especially if complications develop, as it can lead to serious issues such as blood clots.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
If you are at risk or exhibit symptoms of endocarditis and have risk factors such as congenital heart diseases, you should speak to your doctor for more information on prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am experiencing fever and night sweats. Does this mean I have infective endocarditis?
There are many infectious and non-infectious causes of fever and night sweats, and this disease is one of them. Therefore, you should visit the emergency room to determine the cause of these symptoms and start appropriate treatment.
Does anyone who undergoes dental procedures have a risk of developing infective endocarditis?
No, only specific individuals are at greater risk and need to use antibiotics before dental procedures, such as:
People with artificial heart valves.
Those who have previously had infective endocarditis.
Individuals with severe congenital heart defects (causing cyanosis).
