Diseases
endocarditis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Endocarditis is a life-threatening inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves. This lining is called the endocardium. Endocarditis is usually caused by an infection. Bacteria, fungi or other germs get into the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in the heart.
Symptoms
- shortness of breath
- aching joints and muscles
- chest pain when you breathe
- night sweats
- flu-like symptoms, such as fever and chills
Causes
- endocarditis is usually caused by an infection with bacteria, fungi or other germs. the germs enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart.
Risk factors
- older age. endocarditis occurs most often in adults over age 60.
- artificial heart valves.
- damaged heart valves.
Diagnosis
- blood culture test.
- computerized tomography (ct) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (mri).
- electrocardiogram (ecg or ekg).
- echocardiogram
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is endocarditis?
Endocarditis is a life-threatening inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves. This lining is called the endocardium. Endocarditis is usually caused by an infection. Bacteria, fungi or other germs get into the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in the heart.
What are the symptoms of endocarditis?
shortness of breath, aching joints and muscles, chest pain when you breathe, night sweats, flu-like symptoms, such as fever and chills
What causes endocarditis?
endocarditis is usually caused by an infection with bacteria, fungi or other germs. the germs enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart.
Which medicines are used for endocarditis?
ampicillin, cefadroxil, gentamicin, penicillin g procaine, streptomycin
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