Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection-related inflammation of the lining of the heart chambers and valves; it is rare but life-threatening. Anyone can be affected, though it is more common in men and in people over 50. Bacteria, or less often fungi, reach the bloodstream through the mouth or skin, for example during dental work or a cut, and lodge on damaged heart tissue. Risk rises with valve disease, an artificial valve, a pacemaker, congenital heart defects, a weakened immune system, a long-term central line, or earlier endocarditis. Symptoms include fever, night sweats, tiredness, breathlessness, joint or muscle pain and weight loss, sometimes with small spots on the skin or under the nails; stroke is a serious complication. Blood tests look for the causative organism, while echocardiography and other heart tests assess damage. Treatment is a prolonged course of antibiotic or antifungal medicine, often given intravenously at first, and surgery is sometimes needed.

Seek emergency care for chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes, sudden breathlessness, fainting, or weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg. See a doctor soon for palpitations, swollen ankles, breathlessness on exertion or a blood pressure reading that stays high. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.