Symptoms of ENDOCARDITIS

Since the disorder is chronic, the symptoms typically are generalized and not also referable to the heart. They include fatigue, fever, night sweats and joint pain. Weight loss can occur. It material from the heart is dislodged into the circulatory system, abscesses can form where the bacteria are deposited. Certain organs, such as the brain, can be subject to strokes due to compromised blood flow. Acute problems with endocarditis are associated with more severe fever and chills. Rapid or irregular heart rates can occur, especially if there is damage to one of the heart's valves. In addition, severe damage to a heart valve will prevent the heart from functioning normally. This can produce congestive heart failure. Symptoms may then include worsening shortness of breath, difficulty breathing when lying down, edema of the legs and abdomen and chest discomfort.