Pericarditis symptoms are similar to those of other heart conditions, such as chest pain (angina). This condition can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
The primary cause of pericarditis is often unknown, but the disease can be caused by infection, surgery, certain drugs and even autoimmune diseases. It may also occur as a complication of a heart attack or other medical condition, such as tuberculosis.
When a person has acute pericarditis, they may feel sharp, stabbing pain in their chests. It varies with their position and movement and can be worse when they lie down or breathe deeply. The pain can get better when they sit up or lean forward.
Doctors can diagnose pericarditis by listening to the chest with a stethoscope. They listen for a sound called pericardial rub, which is caused by the two layers of the sac around your heart rubbing against each other. The doctor can also detect fluid buildup around the heart and in the lungs (pericardial effusion).
A stethoscope is a long, thin device that allows your healthcare provider to hear your heart’s rhythm. They will usually listen to your chest while you’re lying down or sitting up, and while you’re breathing in and out.
Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. They will use a stethoscope to listen for a noise that is made when the pericardium rubs against the outer layer of your heart (pericardial rub).
They will also look for pulsus paradoxus, which happens when your blood pressure drops more than normal when you take deep breaths. It’s a sign of an excess of fluid in the pericardial space, which can block the flow of blood to your heart.
When your doctor thinks you have pericarditis, they will order tests to find out what is causing the problem. Tests include imaging tests, such as cardiac MRI or CT, and blood tests.
During the testing process, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical exam with a stethoscope and examine you for signs of a buildup of fluid in the pericardium, in your lungs or between your ribs.
The most common symptom of pericarditis is pain in the chest. The pain typically is felt on the center or left side of your chest and can be sharp or dull. It’s usually more intense when you move or breathe deeply.
If your chest pain gets worse when you lie down or breathe deeply, you should talk to your healthcare provider right away. They can help you manage the pain and prevent a heart attack.
Your provider can treat pericarditis with medicines, such as pain medicine or anti-inflammatory medicine. They may prescribe antibiotics, as well.
A medication that lowers your blood pressure may also help. Your doctor can also prescribe a diuretic (“water pill”) to remove the extra fluid that is making your chest pain worse.
