What is Infective Endocarditis? Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

What is Infective Endocarditis?

Infective Endocarditis is a serious heart infection. It happens when germs, like bacteria or fungi, enter the bloodstream and attach to the heart’s inner lining or valves. Because this condition can damage the heart, early detection is important. Often, people with certain heart problems are at higher risk. However, anyone can develop this infection if germs enter the blood. According to the CDC, infective endocarditis is rare but can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of infective endocarditis can appear slowly or suddenly. Sometimes, they look like other illnesses. But knowing the signs can help you seek care sooner. Look out for:

  • Fever or chills that do not go away
  • Night sweats
  • Fatigue or feeling very tired
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Swelling in feet, legs, or belly
  • Small red or purple spots on the skin, inside the mouth, or under the fingernails

    • Sometimes, symptoms are mild at first. But over time, they can get worse. If you notice these signs, especially after a dental or medical procedure, talk to your doctor.

    Causes and Risk Factors

    Infective endocarditis is usually caused by bacteria. Less often, fungi or other germs can be the cause. These germs enter the bloodstream through:

  • Dental work or poor dental hygiene
  • Medical procedures involving the heart or blood vessels
  • Use of needles, including IV drug use
  • Infections in other parts of the body

    • Some people are at higher risk. For example, you may be at risk if you have:

  • Artificial heart valves
  • Heart defects from birth
  • Previous endocarditis
  • Damaged heart valves
  • History of IV drug use

    • Even so, anyone can get infective endocarditis if germs enter the bloodstream. Therefore, keeping good hygiene and managing health conditions is important.

    How Infective Endocarditis is Diagnosed

    Doctors use several steps to diagnose infective endocarditis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may perform a physical exam to check for heart murmurs or skin changes. Then, they often order tests such as:

  • Blood cultures to find germs in your blood
  • Heart ultrasound (echocardiogram) to look for infection on heart valves
  • Other blood tests to check for signs of infection

    • Sometimes, more tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis helps prevent serious heart damage.

    Treatment Options

    Treating infective endocarditis usually requires a hospital stay. Doctors give strong antibiotics through a vein. In some cases, antifungal medicines are needed. Treatment often lasts several weeks. If the infection has damaged the heart valves, surgery may be needed to repair or replace them. Most people recover well with early treatment. However, delaying care can lead to serious problems, including heart failure or stroke.

    Prevention Tips

    While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk. Here are some helpful tips:

  • Practice good dental hygiene by brushing and flossing daily
  • Visit your dentist regularly
  • Take antibiotics before certain dental or medical procedures if your doctor recommends it
  • Avoid using IV drugs
  • Treat infections in your body right away
  • Follow your doctor’s advice if you have heart problems

    • By following these steps, you can help protect your heart from infection.

    When to See a Doctor

    If you have symptoms like fever, chills, or chest pain that do not go away, see a doctor. Especially if you have a heart condition or have had recent dental or medical work, do not wait. Early treatment can prevent serious complications. In addition, if you notice unusual spots on your skin or feel very tired, get checked by a healthcare provider.

    In summary, infective endocarditis is a serious heart infection. But with early diagnosis and treatment, most people recover well. Consult a cardiologist for personalized advice if you suspect symptoms of infective endocarditis.