Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptoms of Endocarditis are:

• Fever
• Chills
• Sweats
• General malaise

Your doctor also may identify a new or worsening heart murmur. If your heart valve is significantly affected, you may have shortness of breath and other symptoms of congestive heart failure.

Endocarditis involving valves on the left side the heart (aortic and mitral valves) may cause a stroke. This can occur if parts of the infection break off the valve and travel to the brain. Signs and symptoms of stroke  include a sudden change in vision, speech, movement, or consciousness.  

Some patients have symptoms that go on for a while or are vague. This is called “subacute” endocarditis.

Other signs and symptoms include dark marks on the palms and soles, or painful red marks on the hands and feet.