Signs and Symptoms

There is not one symptom that tells you with 100% certainty that you have infective endocarditis (heart infection). Usually, it is a combination of symptoms and may include the symptoms listed below.

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Flu-like illness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Leg or arm swelling
• Chills
• Weight Loss
• New Rash
• Weakness in one part or side of your body (stroke-like symptoms)

Symptoms can vary from person to person. If you start to feel these symptoms, please seek medical care immediately.

• The earlier medicine can be started, the less damage there will be to the body.
• Waiting or delaying treatment could result in death or permanent disability.

When to seek medical help: If you have any symptoms described above, please see your doctor as soon as possible. You can seek care in the following locations:

• Emergency room
• Urgent care
• Primary care doctor
• Starting treatment early is important, and better for your health.