Pericarditis: Signs, Causes and Treatment

Pericarditis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. Understanding this condition is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. This article will cover the signs, causes and treatment options for pericarditis.

What Are the Symptoms of Pericarditis?

Recognizing the symptoms of pericarditis is the first step toward diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the inflammation.

• Chest Pain: The most prevalent symptom, often sharp and stabbing, located behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest. It may intensify with deep breaths, lying down or coughing.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially when reclining.
• Heart Palpitations: The sensation of a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Low-Grade Fever: Mild fever that may accompany the inflammation.
• Fatigue: A general feeling of tiredness and weakness.

Less common symptoms

• Swelling in the Legs or Abdomen: Fluid retention due to compromised heart function.
• Cough: A dry cough may occur in some cases.
• Pain in the Shoulder or Neck: This pain can radiate from the chest.

What Causes Pericarditis?

Identifying the cause of pericarditis is essential for effective treatment. Multiple factors can lead to the inflammation of the pericardium.

• Viral Infections: Viruses such as the common cold, flu and others can trigger pericarditis.
• Bacterial Infections: Less common but more severe, bacterial infections can cause pericarditis.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to pericarditis.
• Heart Attack: Damage to heart tissue from a heart attack can inflame the pericardium.
• Chest Trauma: Injury to the chest can result in pericarditis.
• Medical Procedures: Cardiac surgery or other invasive procedures can sometimes cause pericarditis.
• Medications: Certain medications can induce pericarditis as a side effect.
• Cancer: Pericarditis can occur as a complication of cancer or its treatment.
• Kidney Failure: Severe kidney issues can lead to a buildup of waste products, causing pericarditis.

How to Diagnose Pericarditis?

Diagnosing pericarditis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination and diagnostic tests.

Medical history and physical exam

The doctor will ask about symptoms and listen to the heart using a stethoscope. A distinctive rubbing sound, known as a pericardial rub, can be an indicator of pericarditis.

Diagnostic tests

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormalities.
• Chest X-ray: Helps visualize the heart and surrounding areas.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that shows detailed images of the heart’s structure and function.
• Blood Tests: Can identify markers of inflammation or infection.
• Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of the heart and pericardium, useful in complex cases.

Treatments for Pericarditis

Treating pericarditis aims to reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause.

Prescription medications

• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Colchicine: Often prescribed for acute pericarditis or recurrent cases to reduce inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: Used in severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective.

Medical procedures

• Pericardiocentesis: A procedure to drain excess fluid from the pericardial sac if fluid buildup is causing severe symptoms or complications.
• Pericardiectomy: Surgical removal of part or all of the pericardium in chronic or recurrent cases that do not respond to other treatments.

Is Pericarditis Serious?

Pericarditis can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the cause and severity. While many cases resolve with treatment, complications can occur.

Most people recover from pericarditis with appropriate treatment. However, recurrent or chronic cases may require ongoing management. As with any medical condition, complications may also occur. 

How to Prevent Pericarditis?

Preventing pericarditis involves managing risk factors and underlying conditions.

• Infection Control: Proper hygiene and timely treatment of infections can reduce the risk.
• Manage Autoimmune Disorders: Regular monitoring and medication adherence for autoimmune conditions.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent heart disease and other related conditions.

Elevate Your Health

Pericarditis is a manageable condition with the right diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes can lead to timely medical intervention and a better prognosis. If you suspect you or a loved one has pericarditis, seek medical advice promptly.*

At Northern Nevada Medical Group, our family medicine doctors are here to help. Located in the Northern Nevada area, our doctors are dedicated to providing comprehensive patient care for patients of all ages.

Learn more about our cardiology doctors, including what conditions we treat as well as what treatment and services we provide.

To learn more about our cardiovascular services, visit our cardiology page. 

*If you believe you or a loved one is experiencing a physical health emergency, CALL 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.