Endocarditis is an inflammation of the endocardium, the inner layer of the heart. Basically, the heart consists of four chambers and valves. These are lines with a thin layer of cells or membrane. This membrane is called the endocardium. Endocarditis can be caused by fungi or other infectious microorganisms. Normal activities are chances for the bacteria or fungus to enter the human body that can cause endocarditis.
Endocarditis is very difficult to diagnosis. Symptoms can be more or less depending on the bacteria or fungi causing the infection. Symptoms include fever, aching muscles, chest pains, coughing, headache, shortness of breath or panting, swelling of abdomen and limbs, weakness and broken blood vessels in the eyes and in the skin.
Endocarditis can damage your heart and can cause serious and sometimes fatal complications. It can develop quickly or slowly.