How Can I Prevent Endocarditis?
People with obstructive HCM may be at increased risk for infective endocarditis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Those at risk should take the following precautions: • Tell all your doctors and dentist you have HCM. They should prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection before performing any procedures on you that may cause bleeding (dental, respiratory and gastrointestinal procedures). • Call your doctor if you have symptoms of an infection. • Take good care of your teeth and gums. Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Heart Center Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, June 2004, WebMD.
