Endocarditis facts for kids

Endocarditis is a condition where the inner lining of your heart becomes inflamed. This inner lining is called the endocardium. Endocarditis most often affects the heart valves. These valves are like tiny doors that control blood flow in your heart.

The heart valves are special because they don't get a direct blood supply. This means if they get an infection from bacteria or other tiny germs, your body's usual defenses (like white blood cells carried in the blood) can't easily reach them. This can make it hard for your body to fight off the infection. When the valves are infected, they might not work properly, which can cause problems for your heart.

What is Endocarditis?

Endocarditis is an inflammation of the endocardium. This is the smooth, thin membrane that lines the inside of your heart chambers and covers the heart valves. When this lining gets inflamed, it can become damaged.

How Does Endocarditis Happen?

Endocarditis usually starts when germs, like bacteria, enter your bloodstream. These germs can then travel to your heart and attach to the endocardium, especially if it's already a bit damaged. Once attached, they can grow and cause an infection.

Common Causes of Infection

• Bacteria: Most cases of endocarditis are caused by bacteria. These bacteria can enter your blood through various ways, such as:

* Dental procedures, especially if you have gum disease. * Skin infections or wounds. * Using needles for injections. * Some medical procedures.

• Fungi: Less commonly, endocarditis can be caused by fungi.
• Other Germs: Sometimes, other tiny organisms can also lead to this condition.

Who Can Get Endocarditis?

Anyone can get endocarditis, but some people are more at risk. This includes people who:

• Have damaged heart valves, either from birth or from other heart conditions.
• Have had endocarditis before.
• Have artificial heart valves.
• Have certain heart defects.
• Have a weakened immune system.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of endocarditis can vary and might develop slowly over time or appear suddenly. They can also be similar to other illnesses, which sometimes makes it tricky to diagnose.

What to Look For

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Fever: A high temperature is often one of the first signs.
• Chills: Feeling cold and shivery.
• Fatigue: Feeling very tired and weak.
• Aches and Pains: Muscle and joint pain.
• Sweats: Especially night sweats.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during activity.
• Swelling: Swelling in your feet, legs, or tummy.
• New Heart Murmur: A doctor might hear an unusual sound in your heart.
• Pale Skin: Looking unusually pale.
• Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.

More Serious Symptoms

Sometimes, more serious symptoms can occur if the infection spreads or causes complications:

• Stroke: If pieces of the infected material break off and travel to the brain.
• Kidney Problems: If the infection affects the kidneys.
• Spleen Enlargement: The spleen might become larger.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If a doctor suspects endocarditis, they will do several tests to confirm the diagnosis and find the best way to treat it.

How Doctors Diagnose It

• Physical Exam: The doctor will listen to your heart for murmurs and check for other signs.
• Blood Tests: Blood samples are taken to look for signs of infection and to identify the specific germ causing it. This is called a blood culture.
• Echocardiogram: This is a special ultrasound of your heart. It uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of your heart's structure and how well it's working. It can show if your valves are damaged or if there are growths (called vegetations) caused by the infection.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of your heart.

Treating Endocarditis

Treatment for endocarditis usually involves strong medicines and sometimes surgery.

• Antibiotics: If bacteria are causing the infection, you will be given antibiotics. These are often given through a vein (intravenously) for several weeks. It's very important to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery might be needed. This happens if the infection has severely damaged a heart valve, if the infection isn't responding to antibiotics, or if there's a risk of serious complications like a stroke. During surgery, a damaged valve might be repaired or replaced with an artificial one.

Prevention

Preventing endocarditis is important, especially for people at higher risk.

Steps You Can Take

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly. See your dentist for regular check-ups. Healthy gums and teeth reduce the chance of bacteria entering your bloodstream.
• Avoid Sharing Needles: Never share needles for any reason.
• Treat Infections Promptly: If you have a skin infection or any other infection, get it treated quickly.
• Tell Your Doctor: If you have a heart condition that puts you at risk, always tell your doctor or dentist before any medical or dental procedures. They might recommend antibiotics before certain procedures to prevent infection.

See also

In Spanish: Endocarditis para niños