While most people are familiar with heart conditions like high blood pressure or coronary artery disease, far fewer are aware of a potentially life-threatening infection called infective endocarditis. Though relatively rare, it’s a serious condition that requires timely diagnosis and treatment—often in a hospital setting. At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we believe in early education and prevention. Knowing the warning signs and risk factors for infective endocarditis can help save your heart—and possibly your life.
What Is Infective Endocarditis?
Infective endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart (called the endocardium), typically involving one or more of the heart valves. It occurs when bacteria or other harmful organisms enter the bloodstream and settle on damaged heart tissue, implanted devices, or abnormal heart valves.
Once inside the heart, these bacteria can multiply and form clumps (called vegetations) that damage heart valves and release toxins into the bloodstream. This can lead to serious complications—including stroke, heart failure, or systemic infection.
What Causes Infective Endocarditis?
The most common cause of infective endocarditis is a bacterial infection. In rare cases, fungi or other pathogens may be involved. Here’s how bacteria can enter the bloodstream:
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Dental procedures (especially with bleeding gums or poor oral hygiene)
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Surgical or medical procedures involving catheters or IV lines
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Skin infections or wounds
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IV drug use
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Existing heart defects or valve abnormalities
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Artificial heart valves or implanted cardiac devices
For most healthy individuals, the body can clear bacteria from the bloodstream. But in people with weakened immune systems or pre-existing heart conditions, these microbes can cause serious damage.
Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop infective endocarditis, certain individuals are at higher risk, including those with:
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Congenital heart defects
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Damaged or prosthetic heart valves
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Prior history of endocarditis
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Implanted devices (such as pacemakers or defibrillators)
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Intravenous drug use
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Uncontrolled diabetes or weakened immune systems
Symptoms of Infective Endocarditis
Infective endocarditis can present with a wide range of symptoms, some subtle and others more severe. Common warning signs include:
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Persistent fever or chills
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Night sweats or fatigue
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Shortness of breath or chest pain
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New or changed heart murmur
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Joint or muscle pain
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Unexplained weight loss
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Small red or purple spots on the skin, under fingernails, or in the eyes (petechiae)
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Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen
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Neurological symptoms (confusion, stroke-like symptoms)
If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing stroke, organ damage, or heart failure.
How Is It Diagnosed?
At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we use a combination of clinical evaluation and advanced testing to diagnose infective endocarditis. This may include:
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Blood cultures to identify the organism causing the infection
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Echocardiogram (especially transesophageal) to look for vegetations on the heart valves
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Electrocardiogram (EKG) to check for rhythm changes
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CT scan or MRI if complications are suspected
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Blood tests to check for inflammation and organ function
Early and accurate diagnosis is key to successful treatment.
Treatment Options
Infective endocarditis typically requires hospital-based intravenous (IV) antibiotics for several weeks to clear the infection. In some cases, surgery may be needed to:
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Replace a damaged valve
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Remove infected tissue
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Repair structural damage to the heart
At Apex, we coordinate with infectious disease and cardiac surgery specialists when needed, providing our patients with a comprehensive care plan.
Preventing Infective Endocarditis
While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk with the following steps:
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Maintain excellent oral hygiene and have regular dental checkups
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Inform your doctor or dentist of any heart conditions or valve issues before procedures
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Avoid IV drug use and ensure safe practices during medical care
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Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
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Take prophylactic antibiotics before certain dental or surgical procedures (if recommended by your doctor)
When to See a Cardiologist
If you’re experiencing unexplained fever, fatigue, or any of the symptoms mentioned above—especially if you have a history of heart conditions, valve problems, or recent infections—it’s important to seek prompt medical evaluation. At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we provide fast, accurate diagnosis and expert care for both common and complex heart conditions. Infective endocarditis is serious, but with early treatment, recovery is possible.