Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, which is the membrane that surrounds the heart. It is a condition that can cause chest pain, fever, and other symptoms. Here is what you need to know about pericarditis, its symptoms, and treatments.

What Is Pericarditis?

The pericardium is a sac-like membrane that surrounds the heart and holds it in place. It protects the heart from infection and inflammation and also contains a small amount of fluid that lubricates the heart.

When the pericardium becomes inflamed, it is called pericarditis. This inflammation can be acute or chronic and can lead to a range of symptoms.

Symptoms of Pericarditis

The most common symptom of pericarditis is chest pain, which can be sharp, stabbing, or dull. The pain may be felt in the front of the chest or in the back and may get worse when lying down or taking deep breaths.

Other symptoms of pericarditis may include:.

Fever
Shortness of breath
Coughing
Heart palpitations
Swelling in the legs or abdomen
Weakness or fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately. While some cases of pericarditis may be mild and resolve on their own, others can be serious and require medical attention.

Causes of Pericarditis

Pericarditis can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral or bacterial infections, autoimmune disorders, trauma, or cancer. In many cases, the cause of pericarditis is unknown.

Diagnosis of Pericarditis

To diagnose pericarditis, your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order tests such as:.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) – to check for abnormalities in heart rhythm or function
Chest X-ray – to look for signs of inflammation or fluid buildup around the heart
Blood tests – to check for signs of infection or inflammation
Echocardiogram – to get a detailed view of the heart and surrounding tissues

In some cases, your doctor may also perform a pericardiocentesis, which is a procedure to remove fluid from the pericardium for further testing.

Treatment of Pericarditis

Treatment for pericarditis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, pericarditis may resolve on its own without treatment. For others, treatment may include:.

Pain relievers – such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and relieve pain
Colchicine – an anti-inflammatory medication that may help prevent recurrent pericarditis
Corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation in severe cases
Treatments for underlying conditions – such as antibiotics for bacterial infections or chemotherapy for cancer

In rare cases, surgery may be needed to remove the pericardium or drain fluid from around the heart.

Prevention of Pericarditis

Since the cause of many cases of pericarditis is unknown, there are no guaranteed ways to prevent the condition.

However, taking steps to maintain heart health, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure, can help reduce the risk of developing pericarditis.

Conclusion

Pericarditis is a condition that can cause chest pain, fever, and other symptoms. While many cases of pericarditis may be mild and resolve on their own, others can be serious and require medical attention.

If you experience any symptoms of pericarditis, it is important to see a doctor immediately to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.