Because of the risks involved, it’s very important to prevent bacterial endocarditis and treat it quickly when it happens. Some heart conditions increase the chances of getting bacterial endocarditis. Having a doctor who understand prevention is vital. Treatment usually involves strong antibiotics but can require surgery.

Specific treatment for bacterial endocarditis will be determined by your child's doctor based on:

• Your child's age, overall health and medical history
• Extent of the infection
• Cause of the infection
• Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies
• Expectations for the course of the infection
• Your opinion or preference

Intravenous (IV) Medication

Bacterial endocarditis is serious. This infection can cause damage to the inner lining of the heart and the valves. In most cases, the infection can be treated with strong antibiotics. These are given through an IV over many weeks. However, heart damage may occur before the infection can be controlled.

Surgery

Surgery may be recommended for endocarditis if there is severe heart valve damage causing heart failure, infection that does not respond to antibiotics or a high risk of stroke from clots forming on the heart valves. The decision to have surgery is made by a team of heart and infection specialists who carefully consider each person's health, they type of infection and possible risks and benefits.