Endocarditis

Endocarditis research papers are written for medical health classes for nursing students or future physicians. As a determinant of health, Paper Masters can explain endocarditis in a custom paper for any course you need at the college level.

Endocarditis is the inflammation of the endocardium, which is the inner layer of the heart. Endocarditis is an infection, and generally occurs when a bacteria or other germ spreads through the bloodstream and attaches to damaged areas inside the heart. If left untreated, endocarditis can severely damage or even destroy the heart valves.

Endocarditis Risks

Individuals with healthy hearts are at a low risk for endocarditis. Those at greater risk are people with damaged heart valves, artificial heart valves, and other heart defects. Treatment options include antibiotics or surgery. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through a number of ways, including daily oral activities, such brushing one's teeth for individuals without healthy teeth and gums, infections, or contaminated needles or catheters.

Symptoms of endocarditis may appear slowly or rapidly, depending on the cause of the infection and the person's overall heart condition. Symptoms of Endocarditis may include:

• Fever and chills
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• A swelling of the feet, legs, or abdomen
• Blood in the urine
• Red spots under the skin of the fingers, in the whites of the eyes, or in the mouth

If left untreated, endocarditis can lead to heart failure, stroke, organ damage, and the spread of infections to other parts of the body. When endocarditis is untreated, it is usually fatal. Individuals should seek medical attention for evaluation after developing any symptoms of endocarditis.