The doctor may suspect endocarditis if the patient expresses the symptoms and has a history of heart disease. An enlarged spleen or hemorrhages in the eyes or under the nails also indicate endocarditis. An examination with a stethoscope may reveal a heart murmur or a change in an existing heart murmur. If the doctor discovers some of these signs, he or she may order a variety of non-invasive diagnostics, or the more invasive transesophageal echocardiogram to confirm the diagnosis.
Endocarditis without more serious complications is treated with antibiotics. Through blood tests, the doctor will determine the bacteria causing the infection so he or she can prescribe the proper medication. The patient may have to take high doses of the medication, often through an IV, for six weeks or more, and activity will be restricted until improvement is seen. If the antibiotics do not cure the infection, open heart surgery may be warranted to remove the infected valve. The procedure for this surgery would be similar to that for a heart valve replacement.
Last updated: 01-Jan-00
