A tooth infection can influence your heart rate. An untreated dental infection can indirectly cause an elevated heart rate, particularly in individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions. This connection underscores the importance of addressing oral health concerns promptly to maintain overall well-being.
How Oral Infections Affect the Body
A localized tooth infection can influence systemic health through several physiological mechanisms. Bacteria from the infected tooth can enter the bloodstream, a process known as bacteremia, especially if the abscess ruptures or during routine activities like brushing. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can travel to various parts of the body, including the heart.
The body’s immune system responds to the presence of these bacteria by initiating an inflammatory response. This systemic inflammation involves the release of inflammatory mediators and immune cells throughout the body. This generalized inflammatory state can place additional stress on the cardiovascular system, requiring the heart to work harder to circulate blood and immune components to fight the infection. Consequently, this increased demand on the heart can manifest as an elevated heart rate.
Recognizing Serious Symptoms
When a tooth infection becomes serious or begins to spread, specific symptoms indicate a need for immediate attention. A high or abnormally fast heart rate, known as tachycardia, can be a warning sign that the infection is affecting your body.
Other concerning symptoms include:
A persistent fever, signaling a widespread infection.
Chills, often accompanying fever.
Swelling that extends beyond the immediate tooth area, such as to the face, jaw, or neck.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Severe pain that doesn’t lessen with typical pain relievers.
A general feeling of malaise or extreme fatigue.
Broader Health Implications of Untreated Dental Infections
Beyond affecting heart rate, untreated dental infections pose other significant systemic health risks. The spread of bacteria can lead to severe conditions like cellulitis, a spreading bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues. Abscesses can also form in other parts of the body if bacteria travel through the bloodstream.
In rare but serious instances, an untreated dental infection can lead to cavernous sinus thrombosis, a blood clot in a large vein at the base of the brain. Chronic inflammation from persistent dental infections can also have long-term effects on cardiovascular health, potentially increasing the risk of conditions like atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the arteries, and endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining. This inflammation can also increase the risk of stroke.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Prompt professional evaluation is necessary if you suspect a tooth infection, especially if accompanied by systemic symptoms. Any signs like a high heart rate, fever, or spreading swelling warrant immediate medical or dental attention. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications.
Avoid self-treating a tooth infection, as over-the-counter remedies cannot address the underlying bacterial cause. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, drainage of an abscess, a root canal procedure, or tooth extraction, are crucial for preventing the infection from spreading and causing more severe health issues. Seeking care from a dental professional ensures the infection is properly managed and resolves the source of the problem.