Treatment:

You will be admitted to the hospital so you can receive antibiotics through a vein. Long-term, high-dose antibiotic treatment is needed to get rid of the bacteria. Treatment is usually given for 4-6 weeks, depending on the specific type of bacteria. Blood tests will help your doctor choose the best antibiotic.

Surgery may be needed to replace damage heart valves.

Expectations (prognosis):

Early treatment of bacterial endocarditis generally has a good outcome. Heart valves may be damaged if diagnosis and treatment are delayed.

Complications:

• Blood clots or emboli that travel to brain, kidneys, lungs, or abdomen
• Brain abscess
• Congestive heart failure
• Glomerulonephritis
• Jaundice
• Neurological changes
• Rapid or irregular heartbeats, including atrial fibrillation
• Severe valve damage
• Stroke

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you note the following symptoms during or after treatment:

• Weight loss without change in diet
• Blood in urine
• Chest pain
• Weakness
• Numbness or weakness of muscles
• Fever