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Endocarditis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

A serious condition called endocarditis involves the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. It is usually caused by an infection with bacteria, fungi, or other germs that enter the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas within the heart. As a result, it is imperative to recognize the symptoms of endocarditis and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Complications of endocarditis include heart failure, stroke, abscesses, and sepsis.

Causes of Endocarditis

Endocarditis can occur when germs from other parts of the body, such as the mouth, throat, skin or gut, get into the bloodstream and travel to the heart. This can happen due to:

• Poor oral hygiene or gum disease

• Dental procedures or surgeries

• Catheterization or long-term use of catheters

• Sexually transmitted diseases

• Intravenous drug use

• Piercings or tattoos

Some people are more prone to develop endocarditis than others. These include people who have:

• Artificial or damaged heart valves

• Congenital heart defects

• Previous history of endocarditis

• Suppressed immune system

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Symptoms of Endocarditis

The symptoms of endocarditis can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:

• Fever and chills

• Night sweats

• Fatigue and weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Heart murmur or abnormal heartbeat

• Swelling in the legs, feet or abdomen

• Muscle and joint pain

• Skin rash or red spots

• Weight loss

• Blood in the urine

• Splenomegaly or enlarged spleen

Some less common symptoms include:

• Osler nodes or painful red bumps on the fingers or toes

• Janeway lesions or painless red spots on the palms or soles

• Petechiae or tiny red dots on the skin, eyes or mouth

• Stroke, seizures or paralysis

• Abscesses in the heart, brain, lungs or other organs

Diagnosis of Endocarditis

In order to diagnose endocarditis, the doctor will examine the patient's symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. The doctor will also perform a physical examination and listen to the heart sounds. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may order some tests. These tests may include:

• Blood tests to check for the presence of germs or inflammation markers

• Echocardiogram to visualize the heart valves and chambers

• Electrocardiogram to measure the electrical activity of the heart

• Chest X-ray to detect any enlargement or fluid in the heart or lungs

• CT scan or MRI to check for any spread of the infection to other organs

• Cardiac catheterization to assess the blood flow and pressure in the heart

Treatment of Endocarditis

The treatment of endocarditis depends on the type and severity of the infection, the condition of the heart and the response to the medication. The main goals of the treatment are to:

• Eliminate the infection with antibiotics or antifungal drugs

• Repair or replace the damaged heart valves or tissue with surgery

• Prevent or treat any complications with medication or procedures

The treatment usually involves hospitalization and close monitoring. The duration of the treatment can range from a few weeks to several months. The doctor will advise on the best course of treatment.

Prevention of Endocarditis

Endocarditis can be prevented by reducing the risk of infection and maintaining good heart health. Some preventive measures include:

• Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly

• Avoiding non-sterile procedures that may introduce germs into the bloodstream

• Taking preventive antibiotics before certain dental or medical procedures, if advised by the doctor

• Following the doctor’s instructions on taking care of the artificial or repaired heart valves

• Avoiding intravenous drug use or sharing needles

• Seeking prompt treatment for any signs of infection or inflammation

• Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly

• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake

• Managing any underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention of endocarditis, one can protect their heart and health.