ENDOCARDITIS

Endocarditis is inflammation of the inside lining of the heart chambers and heart valves (endocardium). This condition can involve the heart muscle, heart valves or lining of the heart. Most people who develop endocarditis have heart disease of the valves.

Risk factors for developing endocarditis include:

• Injection drug use
• Permanent central venous access lines
• Prior valve surgery
• Recent dental surgery
• Weakened valves

Bacterial infection is the most common source of endocarditis. However, it can also be caused by fungi.

Symptoms of Endocarditis include: (may develop slowly or suddenly)

• Abnormal urine color
• Blood in the urine
• Chills
• Excessive sweating
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Heart murmur
• Joint pain
• Muscle aches and pains
• Night sweats
• Nail abnormalities (splinter hemorrhages under the nails)
• Paleness
• Red, painless skin spots on the palms and soles
• Red, painful nodes in the pads of the fingers and toes
• Shortness of breath with activity
• Swelling of feet, legs, abdomen
• Weakness
• Weight loss