Endocarditis (Infection of the heart)

Endocarditis occurs when the endocardium, which lines the insides of the heart's chambers and valves gets infected, typically by bacteria or fungi. If endocarditis is not treated, the heart valves could get damaged or destroyed and can be fatal.

Causes

Poor dental hygiene e.g., improper or inadequate tooth brushing and flossing
Long-term catheterisation
Use of contaminated needles

Signs and symptoms

Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Fever and chills
Night sweats
Muscle and joint aches
Pain in the chest when breathing
Swelling in the legs, feet or abdomen
A new or altered heart murmur
Sore, scratchy throat or pain when swallowing
Skin rashes
Cuts or wounds that do not heal

Risk factors

Older age
Congenital heart defects
Poor dental hygiene
Prosthetic (artificial) heart valves
Damage to heart valves (caused by rheumatic fever or infections)
Implanted heart device (e.g., pacemaker)
Previous endocarditis
Previous use of contaminated IV needles
Prolonged catheter use

Diagnosis

Evaluation of infection symptoms
Echocardiogram
Blood cultures

Treatment options

Broad-spectrum antibiotics
Surgery to restore heart valve damage and improve cardiac function

Prevention

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any symptoms
Maintain proper oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing of teeth as well as frequent dental check-ups
Avoid using illegal intravenous drugs
Take preventive antibiotics prior to a medical or dental surgery if you have a high risk of developing endocarditis

Visit your nearest Gleneagles Hospital to learn more about our Cardiology Services

References

Endocarditis. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endocarditis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352576 [Accessed on 10 May 2022]
Endocarditis. Available at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16957-endocarditis [Accessed on 10 May 2022]

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