Endocarditis (cont.)

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What is endocarditis?

Endocarditis is a serious inflammation of one of the four heart valves.

What causes endocarditis?

Endocarditis is caused by a growth of bacteria on one of the heart valves, leading to an infected mass called a "vegetation". The infection may be introduced during brief periods of having bacteria in the bloodstream, such as after dental work, colonoscopy, and other similar procedures.

What are the symptoms of endocarditis?

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Patients with endocarditis can develop:

  • fever,

  • fatigue,

  • chills,

  • weakness

  • aching joints and muscles,

  • night sweats,

  • edema (fluid collection) in the leg(s), foot (feet), and abdomen,

  • malaise,

  • shortness of breath, and

  • occasionally, scattered small skin lesions.

In endocarditis, blood cultures can often detect the bacteria causing the endocarditis. Patients can also develop anemia, blood in urine, elevated white blood cell count, and a new heart murmur.


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Endocarditis - Symptoms Question: What symptoms did you experience with your endocarditis?
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