Pericarditis: Inflammation of the Heart Sac

Introduction

Pericarditis refers to the inflammation of the pericardium, the double-layered sac that surrounds the heart. This condition can lead to friction between the layers of the pericardium when the heart beats and may also result in fluid accumulation between these layers, known as pericardial effusion. It is crucial to understand the causes, types, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options associated with pericarditis.

Types of Pericarditis

Pericarditis can manifest in various forms, including:

1. Acute Pericarditis: Sudden inflammation causing pericardial effusion.
2. Subacute Pericarditis: Gradual symptom development over a few days.
3. Recurrent Pericarditis: Symptoms reoccur after an acute episode and a symptom-free period.
4. Chronic Pericarditis: Prolonged inflammation extending beyond three months.
5. Constrictive Pericarditis: Scar tissue thickening the pericardial layers, impacting heart function (rare).

Causes of Pericarditis

Common causes of pericarditis include infections from viruses, fungi, or bacteria, as well as noninfectious factors like autoimmune disorders, heart attacks, cancer, hypothyroidism, kidney failure, and certain medications or treatments.

Risk Factors

Several factors can elevate the risk of developing pericarditis, including being male, aged 20-50, prior history of pericarditis, and recent upper respiratory tract infections.

Signs and Symptoms

Key symptoms of pericarditis include sharp chest pain that worsens when lying down and improves while sitting up, deep breathing, or leaning forward. Other symptoms may include a chronic dry cough, heart palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, muscle aches, fever, rapid breathing, and shortness of breath when lying down.

Diagnosis and Testing

Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, chest X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy of the pericardium.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment varies based on the type and cause of pericarditis:

• Acute pericarditis may resolve on its own, but treatment can involve limiting physical activity and using pain-relieving medications like NSAIDs or colchicine.
• Steroids, antimicrobials (in case of infection), and IL-1 blockers (for recurrent cases) may be prescribed.
• Constrictive pericarditis may require surgery to remove part of the pericardium.

Home Care

Follow these instructions at home:

• Adhere to medication guidelines given by your healthcare provider.
• Limit physical activity as recommended.
• Quit nicotine or tobacco use.
• Maintain a heart-healthy diet.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience worsening chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting.

Conclusion

Pericarditis, characterized by inflammation of the pericardium, can result in varying degrees of discomfort and complications. Understanding the causes, types, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Always consult your healthcare provider to receive personalized guidance and care.