Why are iv drug users more susceptible to endocarditis?

Bacteria in blood: One's skin is a normal barrier to infection. Iv drug users break the skin frequently. In addition, if the needles and/or skin are dirty, bacteria can be injected directly into the blood stream and get to the heart. Also, IV drug users often have compromised immunity.

Dirty/reused needles: When you are more focused on getting the drug into your vein than the equipment you use it increases your risk. Drug addicts pay little attention to sanitizing the skin and using germ free needles to inject the drug. Anytime a germ has a chance to enter your body through poor hygiene you may develop endocarditis.

Dirty needles: Endocarditis is more likely to occur when there are a lot of bacteria in the blood stream. Iv drug abusers break their skin frequently; the skin acts as a normal barrier to infection. Also, if sterile technique is not used (which it rarely is), bacteria are introduced directly into the blood stream. In addition, the immune system of drug addicts is often compromised.