Steps to Take to Avoid Infective Endocarditis

Posted by: Tampa Cardio

On: May 11, 2020

endocarditis tampa cardio heart infection

Infective Endocarditis is an infection of the endocardium, usually with bacteria or less commonly a fungus. It can cause symptoms like fever, anemia, heart murmurs, petechiae, and embolic phenomena.

While an endocarditis infection may seem like a dental issue it can easily lead to heart problems. Dental care is vital in the care and maintaining of your heart health. If your gums bleed regularly when you floss or brush you are at an elevated risk. Doing things like using a dental water pick, swishing with warm salt water rinses, and flossing daily can help your gums to heal and prevent this ever becoming an issue.

This type of infection is usually strep or staph in nature. It is caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream through normal daily activity on top of an injury or tears in the mouth by way of brushing too hard dental work, or even dental disease. Those who use IV drugs illegally or even IV therapy medically are also at a raised risk.

What a dental infection may lead to if untreated – Symptoms to look out for:

  • Abnormal heart sounds
  • Skin becoming paler than usual
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Night Sweats
  • Joint Pain
  • Muscle Pain
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Left upper abdomen feeling full
  • Losing weight with no effort

Treatment: is done by way of antibiotic medications. It is important to see your doctor as soon as you suspect you may have an infection.

Where this leads to heart problems: This bacteria which has entered the bloodstream can settle in the heart and heart valves. Those with heart conditions have a greater likely hood of developing it. IE specifically refers to an infection in the lining of the heart but also may affect the muscles and flaps.

It may present as:

Acute — develops suddenly and may become life-threatening within days

Subacute (or subacute bacterial endocarditis) — develops slowly over a period of weeks to several months.

When it comes to IE preventative is the best care. With that said, never hesitate to come to us at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates of Tampa Bay, Florida if you feel like you need help with your heart. Always listen to your body.

We can be reached by dialing 813-975-2800. You may also learn more about us on our site at www.tampacardio.com.

Posted by: Tampa Cardio

On: 11/05/2020

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