Symptoms

The symptoms of endocarditis can develop rapidly over a few days (acute endocarditis), or slowly over a few weeks or possibly months (subacute endocarditis).

Subacute endocarditis is more common in people with congenital heart disease.

Symptoms of endocarditis

The most common symptoms of endocarditis include:

• a high temperature
• chills
• night sweats
• headaches
• shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• cough
• tiredness (fatigue)
• muscle and joint pain

Other symptoms can include:

• small red, brown or purple spots on the skin (petechiae); these may be harder to see on brown and black skin
• narrow, reddish-brown lines of blood that run underneath the nails
• painful red lumps in the pads of the fingers and toes, but redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin
• painless red spots on the palms and soles, but redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin
• confusion
• loss of appetite
• unexpected weight loss

When to seek medical advice

Contact your GP as soon as possible if you develop any symptoms of endocarditis, particularly if you're at a higher risk of developing it, such as if you have a history of heart disease.

Find out more about the causes of endocarditis

When to seek emergency medical advice

A stroke is one of the most serious complications that can develop from endocarditis.

If you suspect a stroke, dial 999 immediately to request an ambulance.

The most effective way to identify the symptoms of a stroke is to remember the word FAST, which stands for:

• Face – the face may have dropped on 1 side, the person may be unable to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped
• Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in 1 arm
• Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake; they may also have problems understanding what you're saying to them
• Time – it's time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms