Infective Endocarditis

1. What is Infective Endocarditis?

1.1. An infection in the heart valves or endocardium. This happens when a buildup of bacteria enters the bloodstream and effects the heart. This bacteria can come from the skin, mouth, intestines, respiratory system, or urinary tract.

2. Manifestations

2.1. Symptoms vary from person to person. Symptoms present as fever, chest pain, pain or swelling in joints,muscle aches and tenderness, fatigue, abnormal urine color and many others.

3. Interventions

3.1. Preventative antibiotics in some cases are helpful. It's important to know the signs and symptoms of IE. Pay close attention to your dental health and practice good dental hygiene. Also avoid piercings and tattoos because they could lead to infection later.

4. Diagnosis

4.1. How to diagnose for IE?

4.1.1. Physical Exam and explanation of symptoms, check for fever and feel a Dr. will feel your spleen. Blood will be tested for bacteria and a complete blood check will be used to rule out anemia. They will look for a shortage of red blood cells also.

4.1.1.1. A possible ECD and further imaging like a chest x-ray, a CT, or an MRI

5. Risk Factors

5.1. The risk of IE is at it's highest after dental procedures, insertion of needles or catheters, or procedures that treat infection.

5.1.1. Others at risk: people with artificial heart valves, IV drug users, people born with congenital heart defects, or people with a history of mitral valve prolapse and valve regurgitation.

6. Complications

6.1. Surgery. risk of embolism, neurological issues, stroke, partial paralysis, kidney damage.

6.1.1. Clumps of bacteria from the heart can break off from your heart and travel to different parts of the body. These clumps are called vegetations.