Infective Endocarditis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Infective Endocarditis?

Infective endocarditis is a serious heart infection. It affects the inner lining of the heart, called the endocardium. Usually, bacteria cause this infection, but sometimes fungi or other germs can be responsible. Because the heart is vital, this condition needs quick medical care. According to the CDC, infective endocarditis is rare but can be life-threatening if not treated early. For this reason, knowing the signs and risks is important.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of infective endocarditis can appear slowly or suddenly. Often, they may seem like other illnesses. However, some signs are more common in this heart infection. If you notice these symptoms, you should seek medical help:

Fever or chills that do not go away

Night sweats

Fatigue or feeling very tired

Shortness of breath

Chest pain, especially when breathing

Muscle or joint pain

Unexplained weight loss

Swelling in the legs, feet, or belly

Small red or purple spots on the skin, inside the mouth, or under the fingernails

Sometimes, symptoms may be mild at first. But as the infection grows, they often get worse.

Causes and Risk Factors

Most cases of infective endocarditis happen when bacteria enter the bloodstream. These germs can travel to the heart and attach to damaged heart valves or tissue. In some cases, fungi or other germs can also cause the infection. There are several ways bacteria can enter the blood. For example, dental work, surgery, or even brushing teeth with gum disease can allow germs in.

Certain people have a higher risk of getting infective endocarditis. These risk factors include:

Having artificial (prosthetic) heart valves

History of heart valve disease or previous endocarditis

Congenital heart defects (heart problems present at birth)

Injected drug use

Poor dental health

Long-term use of catheters or medical devices

Because these risks are common, it is important to know your own health history.

How is Infective Endocarditis Diagnosed?

Doctors use several steps to diagnose infective endocarditis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they perform a physical exam. Often, they listen for heart murmurs, which are unusual heart sounds. After that, doctors may order tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can include:

Blood cultures to find bacteria or fungi in your blood

Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) to look for infection or damage

Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart rhythm

Other blood tests to check for signs of infection

Because early diagnosis is key, do not delay seeking help if you have symptoms.

Treatment Options

Treating infective endocarditis usually requires a hospital stay. Most people need strong antibiotics given through a vein (IV antibiotics). These medicines help kill the bacteria causing the infection. Sometimes, if the infection is caused by fungi, doctors use antifungal drugs instead. Treatment often lasts several weeks.

In some cases, surgery may be needed. For example, if the infection damages heart valves or does not respond to medicine, doctors may suggest surgery to repair or replace the valve. Because each case is different, your doctor will choose the best treatment plan for you.

Prevention Tips

While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk of infective endocarditis by following these tips:

Practice good dental hygiene by brushing and flossing daily

Visit your dentist regularly

Take antibiotics before dental or medical procedures if your doctor recommends it

Avoid injected drug use

Keep wounds clean and covered

Follow your doctor’s advice if you have a heart condition

Because prevention is easier than treatment, these steps are important for everyone, especially those at higher risk.

When to See a Doctor

If you have symptoms of infective endocarditis, see a doctor right away. Early treatment can prevent serious problems. You should also talk to your doctor if you have a heart condition and plan to have dental or surgical procedures. For those with a history of heart valve disease, regular check-ups are important. Remember, acting early can save your heart and your life.

Consult Dr. Surendra Gangawane, cardiologist, for personalized advice on infective endocarditis.