Endocarditis is the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, particularly the heart valves, caused by bacterial or fungal infection. This condition can lead to serious complications and requires prompt medical attention.

Flagyl

Metronidazole

200|400mg

Infective Endocarditis FAQ


What are the common symptoms of endocarditis?

Common symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, aching joints and muscles, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.

How is endocarditis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through blood tests, echocardiogram, and other imaging studies to detect signs of infection or damage to the heart valves.

What are the risk factors for developing endocarditis?

Risk factors include having a pre-existing heart condition, valvular heart disease, prosthetic heart valves, and a weakened immune system.

Can endocarditis be prevented?

Maintaining good oral hygiene, promptly treating infections, and following antibiotic prophylaxis recommendations before certain medical procedures can help prevent endocarditis.

Treatment often involves antibiotics to eliminate the infection, and in some cases, surgical repair or replacement of damaged heart valves may be necessary.

Is endocarditis a life-threatening condition?

Yes, if left untreated, endocarditis can lead to serious complications such as heart failure, stroke, and even death.

Can endocarditis occur in children?

Yes, children with certain heart conditions or congenital heart defects are at risk of developing endocarditis.

Is endocarditis contagious?

Endocarditis itself is not contagious, but the infections that lead to endocarditis can be transmitted from person to person.

What lifestyle changes can help manage endocarditis?

Managing stress, following a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can aid in managing endocarditis.

Can endocarditis recur after treatment?

Yes, there is a risk of reinfection or recurrence of endocarditis, especially in individuals with underlying heart conditions.

Are there any long-term effects of endocarditis?

Endocarditis can cause long-term damage to the heart valves, leading to complications such as heart rhythm disturbances and heart failure.

Is it safe to exercise with endocarditis?

It is important for individuals with endocarditis to consult their healthcare provider before starting or resuming an exercise regimen to ensure safety.

What should be done in case of suspected endocarditis?

Seek immediate medical attention if there are symptoms suggestive of endocarditis, as this condition requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Can antibiotics prevent endocarditis during dental procedures?

Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for individuals with certain high-risk heart conditions before dental procedures to prevent endocarditis.

Is endocarditis more common in certain populations?

While endocarditis can affect anyone, individuals with heart conditions or those with a history of endocarditis are at higher risk.

Releated topics


Information provided by Maryam Abdullahi-Mahdi. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew