What Is Pericarditis?

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium—the thin, two-layered, fluid-filled sac surrounding the heart. This inflammation can cause chest pain and other symptoms. Most cases resolve with treatment, but some may recur or lead to complications. Verywell Health+5Cleveland Clinic+5Cleveland Clinic+5Patient

What Are the Types of Pericarditis?

Pericarditis can be classified based on its duration and underlying cause:

• Acute Pericarditis: Sudden onset, often resolving within a few weeks.
• Chronic Pericarditis: Persists for more than three months.ChemoExperts+1Cleveland Clinic+1
• Recurrent Pericarditis: Episodes return after symptom-free intervals.ChemoExperts
• Constrictive Pericarditis: Thickening and stiffening of the pericardium, impairing heart function.

What Are the Symptoms of Pericarditis?

Common symptoms include:Mayo Clinic+1Merck Manuals+1

• Chest Pain: Sharp or stabbing pain, often worsening with deep breathing, coughing, or lying flat, and improving when leaning forward.Merck Manuals+3MedStar Health+3British Heart Foundation+3
• Fever: Low-grade fever may accompany the condition.
• Fatigue: General tiredness or weakness.
• Shortness of Breath: Especially when reclining.
• Heart Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats may occur.

What Causes Pericarditis?

The causes of pericarditis include:

• Viral Infections: Such as coxsackievirus, echovirus, or influenza.
• Bacterial Infections: Including tuberculosis or pneumonia.Verywell Health
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Heart Attack: Inflammation following a heart attack.Health+4Heart Foundation NZ+4British Heart Foundation+4
• Chest Injury: Trauma to the chest area.British Heart Foundation
• Cancer: Metastasis to the pericardium.Patient+10Merck Manuals+10NCBI+10
• Medications: Certain drugs can induce pericarditis.
• Idiopathic: In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown.

How Is Pericarditis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical Examination: Listening for a pericardial friction rub.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Identifying characteristic changes.Health+2Mayo Clinic+2Cleveland Clinic+2
• Echocardiogram: Assessing for fluid accumulation around the heart.MedStar Health+2Mount Sinai Health System+2Verywell Health+2
• Chest X-ray: Visualizing heart size and shape.
• Blood Tests: Checking for markers of inflammation and infection.

What Treatments Are Available for Pericarditis?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity:

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Colchicine: May prevent recurrence in certain cases.
• Corticosteroids: Used for autoimmune-related pericarditis.
• Antibiotics or Antivirals: For infections.
• Pericardiocentesis: Drainage of excess fluid if necessary.Verywell Health
• Pericardiectomy: Surgical removal of the pericardium in severe cases.

What Is the Outlook (Prognosis) for Pericarditis?

Most individuals recover fully with appropriate treatment. However, some may experience recurrent episodes or complications like constrictive pericarditis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a favorable outcome.

When Should One Seek Medical Attention for Pericarditis?

Immediate medical attention is necessary if experiencing:Verywell Health

• Severe Chest Pain: Especially if it radiates to the shoulder, neck, or jaw.
• Difficulty Breathing: Especially when lying down.Verywell Health
• Fainting or Dizziness: Signs of reduced blood flow.
• Persistent Fever: Not responding to over-the-counter medications.

These symptoms may indicate complications requiring urgent care.