Pericarditis? - Answers

Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the sac that surrounds the heart. It can be caused by a number of things, including infection, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications. Symptoms of pericarditis include chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatment for pericarditis typically involves anti-inflammatory medications and, in some cases, surgery.

Here are some additional details about pericarditis:

* Causes: The most common cause of pericarditis is a viral infection, such as the flu or the common cold. Other causes include bacterial infections, autoimmune disorders (such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis), certain medications (such as chemotherapy drugs), and radiation therapy.

* Symptoms: The most common symptom of pericarditis is chest pain. The pain is typically sharp or stabbing, and it may worsen with coughing, lying down, or deep breathing. Other symptoms of pericarditis include fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, and nausea.

* Diagnosis: Pericarditis is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms, a physical examination, and imaging tests (such as an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and chest X-ray).

* Treatment: Treatment for pericarditis typically involves anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain fluid from the pericardium or to remove the pericardium altogether.

* Outlook: Most cases of pericarditis are mild and resolve within a few weeks. However, some cases can be more severe and may lead to complications, such as cardiac tamponade (a buildup of fluid around the heart) or constrictive pericarditis (a thickening of the pericardium that restricts the heart's movement).

If you are experiencing chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, or fatigue, it is important to see a doctor right away to rule out pericarditis and other possible causes.