Bacterial Endocarditis

Posted by Jason on July 10, 1999 at 09:52:41
Three weeks ago, I had open-heart surgery to replace my aorta valve caused by bacterial endocarditis.  There were no significant warning signs to my knowledge.  I had injured my back while working about two weeks prior.  The usual aches & pains followed.  A doctor/friend happened to come by to see how I was doing and had me admitted to the local hospitals emergency room within the hour.
My heart rate was 135 at rest & my ankles had swelled also.  Were there any warning signs in the prior few weeks that would have alerted me to this?
My family was informed prior to surgery that because of the severity of infection, that I might not pull through.  Thank you.

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on July 12, 1999 at 08:56:19
Dear Jason,
Wow, it's a good thing your friend came by.  The condition that you had is not that uncommon.  Endocarditis is an infection of one of the valves of the heart.  Often the valve will already have had an underlying abnormality that predisposes it to infection.  One common type of abnormality is damage done by rheumatic fever.  Other causes could be congenital.  Once the bacteria has infected the valve more damage is done to the valve.  The treatment is usually protracted iv antibiotics.  Even after the infection has been eradicated the damage to the valve is still present and usually requires surgical repair.  
Information provided here is for general educational purposes only. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and treatments. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please Call 1 - 800 - CCF - CARE for an appointment at Desk F15 with a cardiologist