Disease
Pericarditis

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Overview of Pericarditis

Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can lead to chest pain, often sharp and sudden, particularly on the left side or under the breast. It may be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or even heart surgeries. Pericarditis can result in the accumulation of fluid around the heart, known as pericardial effusion, which can sometimes become life-threatening. Early diagnosis and proper management are key to preventing serious complications.

Types of Pericarditis

  • Acute Pericarditis: Sudden inflammation lasting less than six weeks, often causing sharp chest pain.
  •  Chronic Pericarditis: Inflammation lasting longer than six months, with recurring symptoms and discomfort.
  •  Constrictive Pericarditis: Thickened pericardium that restricts the heart’s movement, potentially leading to heart failure.
  •  Infectious Pericarditis: Caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections affecting the pericardial sac.
  •  Autoimmune Pericarditis: Linked to autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
  •  Post-Cardiac Injury Pericarditis: Occurs after heart surgery or trauma to the chest.
  •  Uremic Pericarditis: Seen in patients with advanced kidney disease.

Symptoms of Pericarditis

Sharp pain in chest, especially on the left side or under the breast Chest pain that worsens when lying down or taking a deep breath Pain in chest when swallowing Left chest discomfort or cold feeling in chest  Pain below sternum or sharp heart pain Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing while lying flat Palpitations or irregular heartbeat Low-grade fever, fatigue, or general weakness Swelling in legs or abdomen (in constrictive cases) Dry cough or pain under right collarbone

Causes of Pericarditis

Viral infections (e.g., Coxsackievirus, HIV) Bacterial infections (e.g., Tuberculosis) Heart attack or complications after heart surgery Autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis Kidney failure, especially in patients on dialysis Cancer that spreads to the pericardium Radiation therapy to the chest Certain medications, including chemotherapy Trauma or injury to the chest Idiopathic causes – sometimes the cause remains unknown

Complications in Pericarditis

Pericardial effusion – buildup of fluid around the heart Cardiac tamponade – severe fluid accumulation that compresses the heart Constrictive pericarditis – scarring and thickening of the pericardium Chronic chest pain or recurring pericarditis episodes Heart failure due to restricted heart movement Reduced blood flow leading to organ dysfunction

Risk Factors of Pericarditis

Recent viral or bacterial infection Autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis Kidney disease requiring dialysis History of heart surgery or trauma Radiation exposure to the chest area Certain cancers such as lung or breast cancer Use of medications affecting immune system Male gender, more common in men aged 20–50

Preventions of Pericarditis

Avoid exposure to known infectious agents Promptly treat infections and inflammatory conditions Manage autoimmune diseases with regular check-ups Avoid chest trauma and seek timely care for injuries Limit alcohol and drug use that could affect the heart Follow a heart-healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and diet Stay updated with vaccinations that prevent viral illnesses Routine monitoring if you’ve had previous pericarditis

Diagnosis of Pericarditis

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects changes in heart’s electrical activity linked to pericarditis ECG patterns.
  • Echocardiogram: Checks for fluid around the heart or pericardial effusion.
  • Chest X-ray: May show an enlarged heart if fluid is present.
  • Cardiac MRI or CT Scan: Gives detailed images of pericardial inflammation.
  • Blood tests: Identify signs of infection or inflammation.
  • Pericardial fluid analysis: If fluid is drained, it can be tested for infection or cancer.

Treatments of Pericarditis

  • Anti-inflammatory medications: NSAIDs like ibuprofen to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Colchicine: Often prescribed to prevent recurrent pericarditis.
  • Corticosteroids: For cases not responding to standard treatment or with autoimmune causes.
  • Antibiotics: If bacterial infection is the underlying cause.
  • Pericardiocentesis: A procedure to drain fluid around the heart in emergency cases.
  • Surgery (Pericardiectomy): Removal of pericardium in constrictive pericarditis.
  • Hospital monitoring: In severe cases, close observation and cardiac support may be required.

Prognosis of Pericarditis

  • Acute pericarditis usually resolves within a few weeks with proper treatment.
  • Chronic or recurrent cases may require longer management but are often controllable.
  • Complicated cases, such as those with pericardial effusion, may need hospitalization but can have a good outcome if treated early.
  • Untreated pericarditis can lead to life-threatening complications, especially if cardiac tamponade develops.

Care at MyhealthMydoctor

  • Personalised treatment plans based on the underlying cause of pericarditis.
  • Access to advanced diagnostics including ECG, MRI, and echocardiography.
  • Collaboration with cardiology and infectious disease specialists.
  • Supportive care and follow-up for recurrent or chronic cases.
  • Safe procedures such as pericardiocentesis and post-operative recovery care.
  • Emotional and psychological support throughout the treatment journey.

Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation

  • What’s the exact cause of my pericarditis?
  •  Is the chest pain I feel dangerous or normal in this condition?
  •  Do I need hospitalization for treatment?
  •  Will this come back again?
  •  How do I know if I have fluid around the heart?
  •  What tests are necessary and why?
  •  Can I exercise or travel during recovery?
  •  How long will I need to take medication?

What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?

  • A clear explanation of what pericarditis is and what’s causing it in your case.
  • Understanding of pericarditis symptoms and how to manage them.
  • A thorough review of your medical history and related conditions.
  • Clear discussion of treatment options and what to expect from each.
  • Reassurance about the seriousness and prognosis of the disease.
  • Guidance on daily activities, diet, and exercise.
  • Plan for follow-up appointments and monitoring.
  • Emotional support and answers to all your concerns.

Honest communication about long-term risks and preventions

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