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Is That Heart Murmur Dangerous? Key Signs of Infective Endocarditis
Published: Sep 10, 2024
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious infection of the heart valves that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Recognizing the signs early is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Fever is the most common symptom of IE, occurring in up to 90% of cases. It's often accompanied by chills, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss. Other symptoms may include fatigue, headache, body aches, night sweats, and shortness of breath. While these symptoms can be vague, persistent fever with no clear cause should raise suspicion.
Physical Signs That May Indicate IE
A new or changing heart murmur is found in about 85% of IE patients. This sound, heard through a stethoscope, suggests abnormal blood flow through the heart valves. Other signs include tiny red spots called petechiae on the skin or in the mouth, and splinter hemorrhages - dark lines under the fingernails. While not definitive, these signs warrant further investigation.
Rare But Telltale Clues
Some uncommon signs are highly suggestive of IE. These include Janeway lesions (painless red spots on palms/soles), Osler nodes (tender bumps on fingers/toes), and Roth spots (bleeding spots in the eyes). While rare, the presence of these signs should prompt immediate medical evaluation for possible IE.
Frequently Asked Questions
IE affects about 3-10 per 100,000 people annually.
Those with pre-existing heart valve issues or artificial heart valves.
Yes, with proper antibiotic treatment and sometimes surgery.
Through blood tests, echocardiogram, and clinical signs.
Don't Ignore the Signs
While many IE symptoms are non-specific, persistent unexplained fever or heart murmur changes should never be ignored.
References
- Baddour LM, et al. Circulation 2015; 132:1435.
- Cahill TJ, Prendergast BD. Lancet 2016; 387:882.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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