Endocarditis Care

If you or a loved one experiences endocarditis, turn to Spectrum Health for expert care that helps you get the best outcome.

Endocarditis is inflammation of the tissue that lines the inside of your heart and its valves. It’s usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection that started somewhere else in your body and then travelled through your bloodstream to your heart.

It’s a serious condition that needs treatment right away.

Talk to your doctor if you experience: 

• Chills or night sweats 
• Fatigue 
• Fever 
• Muscle and joint pain 
• Shortness of breath 
• Swollen feet 
• Weakness

If your physician thinks you may have endocarditis, he or she may: 

• Review your medical history 
• Perform a physical examination 
• Order additional tests, such as a blood test, echocardiogram and Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

Learn more about heart and vascular diagnostic tests at Spectrum Health.

Most of the time, your doctor can treat endocarditis with antibiotics—medications that fight infections caused by bacteria. 

Antibiotics for endocarditis are delivered directly to your veins through an IV. If you have severe symptoms, you may begin your treatment in the hospital. Then, you may continue your treatment at home. Spectrum Health’s home health nurses can help you take your medication safely and comfortably.

In some cases, you may need surgery to: 

• Replace a damaged heart valve 
• Remove infected heart tissue 

Rely on your Spectrum Health cardiothoracic surgeon to work closely with the rest of your care team, so you get coordinated, comprehensive care. 

Learn more about heart surgeries and procedures at Spectrum Health.