What Is Pericarditis?

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac that surrounds and protects the heart. This inflammation can cause chest pain and, in some cases, fluid buildup around the heart.

Pericarditis can develop from several different causes. Viral infections are among the most common, but autoimmune conditions, chest injuries, kidney disease, cancer, heart surgery, and some medications may also lead to inflammation around the heart. In some cases, no clear cause is found.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of pericarditis is chest pain. The pain is often sharp and may feel worse when lying down, coughing, or taking a deep breath.

Symptoms may include:

• Sharp chest pain
• Pain that spreads to the neck, shoulder, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Dry cough
• Trouble swallowing
• Heart palpitations

How Is It Diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam. Listening to the heart can sometimes reveal sounds linked to inflammation around the heart.

Tests commonly used to diagnose pericarditis include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Echocardiogram
• Chest X-ray
• CT scan or cardiac MRI
• Blood tests

These tests help evaluate inflammation, check for fluid around the heart, and rule out other causes of chest pain.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Many people improve with medications that reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Treatment options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Pain-relief medicines
• Antibiotics or antifungal medications if infection is present
• Corticosteroids in some situations

If fluid builds up around the heart and affects heart function, a procedure may be needed to drain the fluid. Surgery is sometimes recommended for severe or long-term complications.

Most people recover within several weeks, although symptoms can occasionally return.