Endocarditis

Endocarditis is a serious medical condition that can damage the heart. In severe cases, it can lead to surgery to replace heart valves or drain abscesses from the heart muscle. It occurs when bacteria that are usually harmless attack the heart tissue. The immune system typically destroys these organisms, but in endocarditis, the valves become damaged, and unwanted microorganisms multiply.

Symptoms

The symptoms of endocarditis can be a very distressing experience and should not be taken lightly. You should seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect that you might have the condition. The most common symptoms are joint pain and tenderness, fever, and night sweats. You may also experience headaches and chest pain. A dry cough or persistent cough may be another symptom.

Blood tests can be ordered to determine the source of the infection. Blood cultures can also confirm whether a specific bacteria cause the infection. If the bacteria are invading the heart, antibiotics will be needed. Another test to check for the infection is a transthoracic echocardiogram. This non-radioactive imaging test uses ultrasound waves to create an image of the heart. It can help determine if the heart is infected and if there is any inflammation.

Infective endocarditis starts when bacteria or other germs infect the heart’s lining. The immune system typically kills these germs but they can enter the heart and cause inflammation. If untreated, the bacteria can cause severe damage to the heart. Bacteria may also produce small clots that move through the blood. These clots can block small arteries and lodge in various body parts.

Causes

A person develops endocarditis when bacteria or fungi infect the heart. These organisms enter the bloodstream through the mouth, throat, or skin, then travel to the heart and cause infection. In addition, the bacteria and fungi may cause endocarditis when they settle in the heart and begin to grow.

Other causes of endocarditis include certain medications. These medications can cause the immune system to become overactive, leading to an infection of the heart. Some of these medications include penicillin, diuretics, and antidepressants. Patients who use illegal IV drugs may be at risk of contracting endocarditis from contaminated syringes or needles. In addition, the body may have anemia, which makes it susceptible to infection.

You should see a doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms. A doctor will evaluate the condition based on the symptoms and medical history. They will perform a thorough physical examination, paying close attention to the heart. They will listen for heart murmurs that may be indicative of endocarditis. They may also order tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Endocarditis is a severe bacterial infection that affects the heart. Usually, it can be treated with antibiotics administered through an intravenous line. Doctors may also use a combination of antibiotics to treat more severe cases. Regular blood tests are also needed to monitor the effect of the treatment.

This condition develops when germs enter the bloodstream and attach to damaged heart tissue and atypical heart valves. This bacterial infection can be caused by several different types of bacteria and fungi. Bacteria that have mutated or become resistant to antibiotics are common causes of endocarditis. In addition, a person may contract the disease after injuries, such as a broken bone or a dental procedure.

The most effective treatment for endocarditis requires multidisciplinary collaboration. Cardiologists and infectious disease experts must consult cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to determine the best treatment. Surgical intervention is required in about 50% of cases.

Incidence

Several factors can influence the incidence of endocarditis, including age. In the United States, endocarditis is two-fold higher in older adults than in younger ones. This increase is likely related to degenerative valvular heart disease changes and the number of patients undergoing invasive therapies such as hemodialysis.

Infective endocarditis is still associated with high mortality and morbidity. Although there have been many changes in the incidence of this condition over the past century, the rate is still relatively high. Changes in population demographics, the use of implantable cardiac devices, and the rise of hemodialysis have increased the number of people at risk. Increasing prevalence rates are also associated with changes in national guidelines.

Infective endocarditis is a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection. Antibiotic prophylaxis effectively decreases the risk of endocarditis, but a variety of other factors can contribute to its development. Early diagnosis and antibiotic prophylaxis can decrease the incidence of the infection. A disciplinary approach to care for patients with infective endocarditis is also essential.