A Brief Summary on: HEART INFECTION

Heart infection is caused by irritants such as a bacteria, viruses or chemicals which enters heart muscle.

The most common causatives of heart infection include:
·      Bacteria
·      Viruses
·      Parasites

Types of Heart Infection:
·      Pericarditis
·      Endocarditis
·      Myocarditis

Ø Pericarditis is swelling and irritation of the pericardium, the thin sac-like membrane that surrounds your heart. It usually begins suddenly but doesn't last long. Most cases are mild and improve on their own, but medication or surgery might be necessary in more severe cases.

Ø Endocarditis is an infection of the heart's valves or inner lining. This type of infection can damage your heart and should be treated right away so that it doesn't become deadly. Most people who develop endocarditis have damaged heart valves or other heart defects.

Ø Myocarditis is a rare disease marked by inflammation and damage of the heart muscle caused by a viral infection or an autoimmune response. It tends to affect otherwise healthy people, and long-term effects vary from fast recovery to heart failure.

Causes of Heart Infection:

Pericarditis:

·      Viral infection

·      Post heart attack or heart surgery

·      Inflammatory autoimmune disorders viz., rheumatoid arthritis, trauma, kidney failure or AIDS

·      Few medications may also cause Pericarditis

Endocarditis:

·      Germs through bloodstream

·      Bacteria can spread as the result of unhealthy teeth and gums

·      Skin sore

·      Dental procedures

·      Sexually transmitted infections

·      A catheter or needle

Myocarditis:

·      Viral infection

·      Autoimmune disease

·      Symptoms of Heart Infection:

·      Shortness of breath

·      Light-headedness and fainting

·      Heart palpitations

·      Chest pain or pressure

·      Abdominal or leg swelling

·      Aching joints or muscles

·      Fatigue and fever

·      Blood in the urine

·      Red, tender spots under the fingernails

·      Tiny purple or red spots on the skin, whites of the eyes, or inside the mouth

Treatment of Heart Infections:

·      Heart infections can generally be treated by the following methods:

·      Antibiotics

·      Medications used to treat heart failure

·      Corticosteroids

·      Drugs that reduce inflammation in the body

·      Occasionally, surgery