How is endocarditis diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes: Blood Cultures: Identify bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream Echocardiography (TTE/TEE): Detects vegetations (infected masses) on heart valves Electrocardiogram (ECG): Monitors heart rhythm abnormalities Cardiac MRI/CT Scan: Provides detailed images of heart structures
Treatment depends on the severity and cause: Antibiotic Therapy: High-dose IV antibiotics for bacterial infections Antifungal Medications: Used for fungal endocarditis Surgery (Valve Repair/Replacement): Recommended in severe cases or if heart valves are damaged
Is endocarditis life-threatening?
Yes, if left untreated, endocarditis can cause serious complications such as heart valve damage, stroke, and heart failure.
What is the prognosis for mitral valve prolapse?
Most cases are benign, but prognosis varies with the severity of mitral regurgitation and arrhythmia risks. Early intervention improves outcomes.
Can mitral valve prolapse be prevented?
While MVP itself cannot be prevented, regular monitoring can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Healthy lifestyle habits also reduce cardiovascular risks.
What is the treatment for mitral valve prolapse?
Treatment includes lifestyle modifications, beta-blockers for symptomatic relief, anti-arrhythmic medications if needed, and surgical repair or replacement for severe mitral regurgitation.
How is mitral valve prolapse diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves physical examination, echocardiography, ECG, Holter monitoring, and stress testing if needed.
What are the early symptoms of mitral valve prolapse?
Early signs include chest pain, palpitations, fatigue, dizziness, and occasional anxiety-like sensations.
What are the complications of Aortic Stenosis?
When untreated, it can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, blood clots, and sudden cardiac death. Other complications include left ventricular hypertrophy, pulmonary hypertension, infective endocarditis, and gastrointestinal bleeding (Heyde’s syndrome) due to associated vascular malformations. Keep in touch with a cardiologist if you face complications.
Can Aortic Stenosis be cured?
While medications help manage symptoms, the definitive cure is valve replacement through surgical or transcatheter approaches.
How is Aortic Stenosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves physical examination (heart murmur), echocardiography, ECG, chest X-rays, CT scans, and cardiac catheterization for detailed assessment.
