Pericarditis: Symptoms and Key Information

Introduction

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered sac surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, which may sometimes be confused with a heart attack.

Common Symptoms

1. Chest Pain

• The most prominent symptom.
• Typically sharp and stabbing in nature.
• Pain may worsen with deep breathing, coughing, or lying flat.
• Often improves when sitting up or leaning forward.

2. Fever and Fatigue

• Low-grade fever may accompany the inflammation.
• General fatigue and weakness are common.

3. Shortness of Breath

• Can occur, especially when lying down.
• Due to fluid buildup in the pericardial space (pericardial effusion).

4. Heart Palpitations

• Irregular or rapid heartbeats.
• Occasionally felt as a fluttering sensation.

5. Swelling (Edema)

• Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or feet in cases of significant pericardial effusion leading to cardiac tamponade.

6. Pericardial Friction Rub

• A distinctive scratching sound heard with a stethoscope.
• Caused by the rubbing of inflamed pericardial layers against each other.

When to Seek Medical Help

• If you experience sudden, severe chest pain, you should seek emergency care to rule out a heart attack.
• Persistent symptoms or recurrent bouts of chest discomfort should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Pericarditis can usually be treated effectively with anti-inflammatory medications, but in severe cases, intervention may be required to manage complications like pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade. Early diagnosis is key to preventing severe outcomes.

Source recommendations

1. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Pericardial Diseases

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Pericardial-Diseases-Guidelines-on-the-Diagnosis-and-Management-of
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/36/42/2921/2293375
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320112/
4. https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2015/10/30/12/01/2015-esc-guidelines-for-the-diagnosis-and-management-of-pericardial-diseases
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15120056/

2. American Heart Association Guidelines on Pericarditis

1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pericarditis
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.105.561514
3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pericarditis/what-is-pericarditis/recurrent-pericarditis
4. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circulationaha.111.066365
5. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pericarditis/what-is-pericarditis