Endocarditis
Overview
Endocarditis is an infection affecting the inner lining of the heart or the heart valves. The infection is usually caused by bacteria or other infectious organisms entering the bloodstream and attaching to heart tissue.
This condition can interfere with normal heart function and may damage heart valves if not treated early. Symptoms can develop gradually or more suddenly depending on the type and severity of infection.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important to reduce complications and protect heart function.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of infection. You may experience:
- Fever or chills
- Fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Persistent infection-related symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss or night sweats
Some people may also notice worsening heart-related symptoms over time.
Causes & Risk Factors
Endocarditis develops when infectious organisms enter the bloodstream and affect the heart lining or valves. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have existing heart valve disease
- Have artificial heart valves
- Have a history of heart infection
- Have certain bloodstream infections
- Have conditions affecting the immune system
These factors can increase vulnerability to heart infection.
When to Seek Care
You should seek medical advice if you:
- Have persistent fever with heart-related symptoms
- Experience unexplained fatigue or infection symptoms
- Have known heart valve disease and develop fever
- Notice worsening shortness of breath or weakness
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Severe shortness of breath
- Chest pain or collapse
- Confusion or stroke-like symptoms
- Rapid worsening of infection symptoms
- Loss of consciousness
Prevention
You can help reduce the risk of endocarditis by:
- Seeking treatment for infections early
- Maintaining good dental and overall health
- Following medical advice for heart conditions
- Attending regular follow-up if you have valve disease or previous heart infection
Diagnostics Used
To assess endocarditis, your care team may use:
Support Services
Managing endocarditis focuses on treating infection and protecting heart function. You may benefit from:
- Infection-focused treatment and monitoring
- Cardiac follow-up care
- Long-term monitoring where needed
- Referral for advanced cardiac care or surgery if required