What happens if endocarditis is left untreated?

Untreated, most patients with infective endocarditis will die. The infection can lead to damage of the heart valve(s) that in turn causes severe leaking (regurgitation) of blood back through the valve(s) and an inability of the heart to efficiently pump blood to the body.

How fast does endocarditis develop?

There are two forms of infective endocarditis: Acute infective endocarditis develops suddenly and may become life threatening within days.

How does endocarditis cause death?

When a person has bacterial endocarditis, these valves may not work correctly. This can force the heart to work harder to get blood out to the body. Sometimes the heart can’t pump out enough blood. Bacterial endocarditis is a serious condition that can sometimes lead to death.

Does endocarditis cause fluid in the lungs?

This is called right-sided infective endocarditis. A vegetation or blood clot going to the lungs can cause a pulmonary embolism and lung damage. Other lung complications include pneumonia and a buildup of fluid or pus around the lungs.

Can you have endocarditis for years?

Conclusions: Long term survival following infective endocarditis is 50\% after 10 years and is predicted by early surgical treatment, age < 55 years, lack of congestive heart failure, and the initial presence of more symptoms of endocarditis.

Can endocarditis affect the brain?

These clumps, called vegetations, can break loose and travel to your brain, lungs, abdominal organs, kidneys, or arms and legs. As a result, endocarditis can cause several complications, including: Heart problems, such as heart murmur, heart valve damage and heart failure. Stroke.

How long does endocarditis last?

Treatment for infective endocarditis begins with an IV of antibiotics in the hospital. After leaving the hospital, most people need long-term antibiotics — about four to six weeks — to kill all the harmful bacteria.

Can endocarditis symptoms come and go?

Symptoms of endocarditis may develop slowly or suddenly. Fever, chills, and sweating are frequent symptoms. These sometimes can: Be present for days before any other symptoms appear.

What is the life expectancy of someone with endocarditis?

Three problems hamper the prognosis of patients who survive the initial phase of infective endocarditis (IE): the rate of IE recurrence is 0.3-2.5/100 patient years, about 60\% of patients will have to be operated on at some time, 20-30\% during the initial stay, 30-40\% during the following 5-8 years; five-year survival …

How long does it take to get rid of endocarditis?

Endocarditis is treated with long-term courses of intravenous antibiotics or antifungals. Each course can last as long as six weeks. If you are taking medication, check with your doctor and dentist before you have dental work.

How long do you live with endocarditis?