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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?

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 were the symptoms associated with endocarditis for you or someone you know?
Endocarditis - Treatment Question: What kinds of treatment, including medication, did you receive for endocarditis?
Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/endocarditis/article.htm

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