What is endocarditis?
Endocarditis is a life-threatening inflammation of the inner lining of your heart's chambers and valves (endocardium).
Endocarditis is usually caused by an infection. Bacteria, fungi or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.
If it's not treated quickly, endocarditis can damage or destroy your heart valves. Treatments for endocarditis include medications and, sometimes, surgery.
People at greatest risk of endocarditis usually have damaged heart valves, artificial heart valves or other heart defects.
Endocarditis may develop slowly or suddenly, depending on what germs are causing the infection and whether you have any underlying heart problems.
Common signs and symptoms of endocarditis include:
- Aching joints and muscles
- Chest pain when you breathe
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your feet, legs or abdomen
- A new or changed heart murmur
Less common signs and symptoms of endocarditis can include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in your urine
- Tenderness in your spleen
- Red, tender spots under the skin of your fingers or toes (Osler's nodes)
When to see a doctor
If you have signs or symptoms of endocarditis, see your doctor as soon as possible — especially if you have risk factors for this serious infection, such as a heart defect or history of endocarditis.
If you've been diagnosed with endocarditis, tell your doctor about any signs or symptoms that may mean your infection is getting worse, such as:
- Chills
- Fever
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Shortness of breath
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endocarditis/symptoms-causes/syc-
20352576
