Bacterial Endocarditis
Definition:
Bacterial endocarditis refers to the infection of the inner lining of the heart, particularly the valves and the inner chambers, caused by the invasion of bacteria into the bloodstream.
Subtypes:
- Acute bacterial endocarditis
- Subacute bacterial endocarditis
Symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Heart murmur
- Joint pain
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen
- Blood in urine
Causes:
- Bacteria entering the bloodstream from various sources:
- Dental procedures
- Genitourinary infections
- Intravenous drug use
- Wounds or injuries
- Certain pre-existing heart conditions or abnormalities
- Weakened immune system
- Use of invasive medical devices
Diagnosis:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests to detect bacteria
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram
- Cardiac MRI or CT scan
Treatment:
- Administration of antibiotics
- Surgical intervention to repair or replace damaged heart valves
- Continuous monitoring of the infection and heart function
Complications:
- Heart valve damage
- Heart failure
- Stroke
- Organ damage
- Blood clots
- Septicemia (blood infection)
- Death
Prevention:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Prophylactic antibiotics before certain medical procedures for individuals at high risk
- Avoiding intravenous drug use
- Early and appropriate treatment of infections
- Regular follow-up for individuals with heart conditions
- Proper use and maintenance of medical devices