Heart Infections

Heart infections, such as pericarditis, endocarditis and myocarditis, are caused when an irritant, such as bacteria, a virus or a chemical, reaches your heart muscle.

• Endocarditis is an infection of the heart's valves or inner lining. It occurs when bacteria get into the bloodstream and settle inside the heart, often on a valve. This infection can damage your heart and needs to be treated right away. If it isn't treated, endocarditis can be deadly.
• Pericarditis is swelling and irritation of the sac that surrounds your heart. Pericarditis usually doesn't cause serious problems. Most people get better in 7 to 10 days.
• Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. Exactly how many people are affected is hard to know because it often has no symptoms. Many people who get myocarditis are otherwise healthy.

Mercy heart specialists are experts at treating all forms of heart disease. They have easy access to a wide network of the best equipment, facilities and Mercy sub-specialists to treat your condition and get you back to doing all the things you love.