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• Valve Disease
• Aortic Insufficiency
• Aortic Stenosis
• Aortic Valve Endocarditis
  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Risk Factors
  • Causes
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatments
  • Physicians and Services
• Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease
• Mitral Valve Endocarditis
• Mitral Valve Prolapse
• Mitral Valve Regurgitation
• Mitral Valve Stenosis

Causes

Bacteria and Germs

Spread Through Your Bloodstream To Heart

Endocarditis usually occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.

Structural Heart Defect

A common underlying factor in endocarditis is a structural heart defect, particularly faulty or congenitally damaged heart valves.

The invading germs can attach to these valves that may have a rough lining, a welcoming place for them to settle. Once there, the germs can multiply in the heart.

Catheter and Inserted Medical Devices

• Having a catheter or other medical device inserted through your skin can also increase your risk of developing endocarditis.
  
• Those who abuse IV drugs are at high risk for infections from germs on needles and syringes.
  
• Certain dental procedures may also allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream.