Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about endocarditis:

1. How can I tell if I am at risk for endocarditis?
   
   
2. What lifestyle factors might increase my chance of developing endocarditis?
   
   
3. What types of tests will be used to diagnose my condition?
   
   
4. How and when will these tests be performed?
   
   
5. What type of endocarditis do I have?
   
   
6. What are my treatment options for my endocarditis?
   
   
7. What type of antibiotics will I need to take and for how long?
   
   
8. What steps can I take to lessen the chances of developing endocarditis?
   
   
9.  Are there any activities I should avoid?
   
   
10. What are some of the signs and symptoms of endocarditis that I need to be aware of?
    
    
11. Do I need to take antibiotics before visiting the dentist?
    
    
12. What types of antibiotics do I need to take? How long before I visit the dentist should I take them?
    
    
13. Are there any other circumstances when I should be taking antibiotics?
    
    
14. How will my condition be monitored throughout my life?
    
    
15.  What is my risk of developing endocarditis in the future?