What is bacterial endocarditis?
A person with bacterial endocarditis has an infection of the inside lining of the heart. In most cases, the infection attacks one or more of the heart valves. The infection can destroy the heart valve, resulting in heart failure. The most commonly affected valve is the mitral valve. Bacterial endocarditis is more commonly seen in those with valvular heart disease.

What are the symptoms of bacterial endocarditis?
Common symptoms of bacterial endocarditis include fever, chills, headache, back pain, night sweats, and weight loss.

How does the doctor treat bacterial endocarditis?
Treatment for bacterial endocarditis includes antibiotics. Surgery may be needed to repair a damaged heart valve.