What are symptoms of endocarditis?

• A. Heart valve problems, new or changed heart murmurs, and fluid retention.
• B. Shortness of breath only.
• C. Chest pain on exertion only.
• D. Irregular heartbeat alone.

Answer: (C)

Endocarditis is an infection that involves the inner lining of the heart and often the valves. The most telling signs come from how the valves are affected: a new or changed heart murmur reflects valve involvement, and if the valve dysfunction progresses, it can lead to fluid retention and symptoms of heart failure. Fever and general malaise are also common, but the key cardiac clues are the valve problems with a murmur and signs of fluid overload.

The option describing heart valve problems, a new or changed heart murmur, and fluid retention best fits the typical presentation of endocarditis. Shortness of breath alone, chest pain on exertion alone, or an irregular heartbeat by themselves don’t capture the valve-related and heart-failure aspects that endocarditis commonly causes.