|
|
|
Key Points
- Pericarditis is a condition in which the
membrane, or sac, around your heart is inflamed. This sac is called the
pericardium.
- The pericardium holds the heart in place and
helps it work properly. The sac is made of two thin layers of tissue that
enclose your heart.
- In pericarditis, the layers of tissue become
inflamed and can rub against the heart, causing chest pain. The chest pain may
feel like pain from a
heart
attack. If you have chest pain, you should call 9–1–1 right
away, as you may be having a heart attack.
- Many factors can cause pericarditis. Viruses and
infections are common causes. Less often, pericarditis occurs after a heart
attack or
heart
surgery. Lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune
disorders also can cause the condition. In about half of all cases, the cause
is unknown.
- Pericarditis can be acute or chronic.
“Acute” means that it occurs suddenly and usually doesn’t
last long. “Chronic” means that it develops over time and may take
longer to treat.
- Both acute and chronic pericarditis can disrupt
your heart’s normal function and possibly (although rarely) lead to
death.
- Pericarditis occurs in people of all ages.
However, men between the ages of 20 and 50 are more likely to get it.
- Sharp, stabbing chest pain and fever are common
symptoms of acute pericarditis. Other symptoms are weakness, trouble breathing,
and coughing. Chronic pericarditis often causes tiredness, coughing, and
shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to swelling in the stomach
and legs and
low
blood pressure.
- Two serious complications of pericarditis are
cardiac tamponade and chronic constrictive pericarditis. These conditions can
disrupt your heart’s normal function. If left untreated, they may lead to
death.
- Your doctor will diagnose pericarditis based on
your medical history and the results from a physical exam and tests.
- Most cases of pericarditis are mild and clear up
on their own or with rest and simple treatment. Other times, more intense
treatment is needed to prevent complications. Treatment may include medicines
and, less often, procedures and/or surgery.
- You usually can’t prevent acute
pericarditis. But, you can take steps to reduce your chances of having another
acute episode, having complications, or getting chronic pericarditis. Get
prompt treatment, follow your treatment plan, and get ongoing medical care (as
your doctor advises).
- In some cases, it may take weeks or months to
recover from pericarditis. Full recovery is likely with rest and ongoing care.
These measures also can help reduce the chances of having the condition
again.
|
|
Living With Links
|