Endocarditis can lead to various neurological complications, which are a significant concern for patients.
Neurological Symptoms of Endocarditis
Neurological complications are common in infective endocarditis (IE) and can manifest in several ways, often due to the spread of infection or emboli from the heart. One well-documented neurological complication is meningitis.
Meningitis and its Clinical Manifestations in Endocarditis
Meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, is observed in a notable percentage of endocarditis patients. The symptoms of meningitis related to endocarditis can include:
- Headache: A persistent and often severe headache is a primary symptom.
- Encephalopathy: This refers to a general brain dysfunction, which can manifest as altered mental status, confusion, or reduced consciousness.
- **Seizures:** Episodes of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, leading to convulsions or other changes in behavior.
- Neck/Back Pain: Discomfort or stiffness, particularly in the neck (nuchal rigidity), which can make it difficult to touch the chin to the chest.
- Nuchal Rigidity: A key sign of meningeal irritation, characterized by stiffness in the neck.
- Photophobia: Increased sensitivity to light, causing discomfort or pain in the eyes.
These symptoms often arise from the direct impact of the infection or from septic emboli traveling to the brain. Early recognition of these neurological signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and management in patients with endocarditis.
