It’s no secret that the opioid crisis has gotten out of hand in recent years. This, in and of itself, is disconcerting, and there’s a laundry list of frightening side effects that come along with opiate use, including overdose, addiction, and mental instability.
There’s a lesser-known side effect, however, that deserves real attention because it’s beginning to take a serious toll on people’s lives—heart infection. This side effect is not to be confused with heart disease, and it’s killing people at an alarming rate, according to a recent Health Day News report.
What is Infective Endocarditis?
The condition is specifically called infective endocarditis, and it occurs when harmful bacteria build up inside the lining of the heart or on the heart valves. It has the potential to destroy the valves, spread throughout the body, and is life-threatening.
Endocarditis is often associated with heart defects or abnormal valves, but it can also be caused by intravenous drug use, particularly when unsanitary needles are used. While most drug-related cases of this infection are seen in heroin users, the type of drug is not as relevant—heroin simply happens to be the most commonly injected substance.
Why is Endocarditis So Dangerous?
Unfortunately, heart infection is very difficult to treat, significantly increasing the risk of death. Patients with drug-related endocarditis are often uninsured, making access to care even more challenging. If healthcare professionals are unwilling to take on these cases, the risk of death rises further.
In recent years, clinicians have observed a staggering increase in opioid-addicted young people cycling in and out of the healthcare system with endocarditis. Early symptoms tend to be non-existent, making treatment difficult because the infection has often progressed before it is detected. The one-year mortality rate is around 30%, which is worse than many cancers.
Symptoms of Infective Endocarditis
Some of the symptoms associated with this heart infection include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness and fainting
- Heart palpitations
- Abdominal or leg swelling
- Chest pain or pressure
- Tender red spots under the fingernails
- Small purple or red spots on the skin, whites of the eyes, or inside the mouth
- Fever
- Blood in the urine
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if IV drug use is involved, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. While the condition is severe, early diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of survival.
Raising Awareness About Drug-Related Endocarditis
This post isn’t meant to be a scare tactic, but rather a wake-up call about an epidemic emerging on top of the opioid crisis itself. The statistics are alarming, but understanding the risks of IV drug use and endocarditis is crucial.
Another concerning factor is that healthcare professionals often have little tolerance for drug-related health issues. A regular heroin user visiting the ER for endocarditis may not receive the same level of sympathy as other patients, making the experience even more difficult for those suffering.
The Importance of Seeking Addiction Treatment
The reality is that addiction can be deadly. While extreme cases like endocarditis from IV drug use are not always common, the risks are real. Spreading awareness about conditions like heart infections is essential, but so is addressing the root cause—addiction itself.
We also recognize that overcoming heroin addiction is one of the hardest battles a person can face. No one should have to do it alone.
Kembali Recovery Center Can Help
If you or a loved one is battling addiction and struggling to quit, Kembali Recovery Center is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about:
- Our 28-day treatment program
- Our Recovery Beyond Program
- Support for any addiction-related questions
All communications are kept completely confidential.
