What is Endocarditis?
Endocarditis is a serious condition characterized by the inflammation of the heart’s inner lining, often resulting from an infection. Bacteria or fungi entering the bloodstream can settle on heart valves or damaged heart tissue, leading to this infection. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, artificial heart valves, or a history of intravenous drug use are at higher risk. Symptoms may develop slowly or suddenly, and without prompt treatment, endocarditis can cause severe damage to heart valves and other complications.