Pericarditis
Overview
Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the thin lining surrounding the heart. The inflammation can cause chest pain and may affect how comfortably the heart moves within the chest.
Symptoms may develop suddenly or gradually and can sometimes follow infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions. Many cases improve with treatment and monitoring, although some people may require ongoing follow-up care.
Early assessment is important to confirm the cause and rule out more serious heart-related conditions.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of inflammation. You may experience:
- Sharp or aching chest pain
- Pain that changes with breathing or body position
- Fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Fever or recent infection symptoms
Some people may notice symptoms worsening when lying flat.
Causes & Risk Factors
Pericarditis can develop from infections, inflammatory conditions, or other medical problems. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have a recent viral or bacterial infection
- Have inflammatory or autoimmune conditions
- Have previous heart-related conditions
- Have undergone heart procedures or surgery
These factors can contribute to inflammation around the heart.
When to Seek Care
You should seek medical advice if you:
- Experience unexplained chest pain
- Notice pain worsening with breathing or lying down
- Develop shortness of breath or fatigue
- Have fever with chest discomfort
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Severe chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting or collapse
- Rapid worsening of symptoms
- Severe weakness or confusion
Prevention
Not all cases can be prevented, but you can help reduce risk by:
- Seeking treatment for infections early
- Managing inflammatory conditions properly
- Attending follow-up care for heart-related conditions
Diagnostics Used
To assess pericarditis, your care team may use:
Support Services
Managing pericarditis focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. You may benefit from:
- Medication and symptom management
- Cardiac monitoring and follow-up care
- Lifestyle and recovery guidance
- Referral for advanced cardiac care where needed