An inflammatory process affecting the pericardium

Symptoms of Pericarditis

The following features are indicative of Pericarditis:
  • chest pain
  • rapid heartbeat
  • difficulty in breathing
  • fever
  • shortness of breath
  • difficulty in breathing
  • discomfort when breathing while lying down
  • chest fullness
It is possible that Pericarditis shows no physical symptoms and still is present in a patient.

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Common Causes of Pericarditis

The following are the most common causes of Pericarditis:
  • systemic inflammatory disorders
  • trauma
  • viral infections
  • certain medicines, such as procainamide, hydralazine, phenytoin
  • swelling or inflammation of the heart muscle

Risk Factors for Pericarditis

The following factors may increase the likelihood of Pericarditis:
  • ages of 20 and 50 years
  • radiation therapy to the chest
  • swelling or inflammation of the heart muscle
  • lupus
  • rheumatoid arthritis

Prevention of Pericarditis

No, it is not possible to prevent Pericarditis.
  • unknown prevention

Occurrence of Pericarditis

Number of Cases

The following are the number of Pericarditis cases seen each year worldwide:
  • Widely occurring between 500K - 1 Million cases

Common Age Group

Pericarditis most commonly occurs in the following age group:
  • Aged between 20-50 years

Common Gender

Pericarditis can occur in any gender.

Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Pericarditis

The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Pericarditis:
  • Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses sound waves produce images of the heart that can help to a Patent ductus arteriosus
  • Chest X-ray: To see the condition of heart and lungs
  • Electrocardiogram: To diagnose heart defects or rhythm problems

Doctor for Diagnosis of Pericarditis

Patients should visit the following specialists if they have symptoms of Pericarditis:
  • Cardiologist

Complications of Pericarditis if untreated

Yes, Pericarditis causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Pericarditis is left untreated:
  • constrictive pericarditis
  • cardiac tamponade

Procedures for Treatment of Pericarditis

The following procedures are used to treat Pericarditis:
  • Pericardiocentesis: To remove and drain the excess fluid from the pericardial cavity
  • Pericardiectomy: To remove the entire pericardium

Self-care for Pericarditis

The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Pericarditis:
  • avoid rigorous physical activity

Last updated date

This page was last updated on 2/04/2019.
This page provides information for Pericarditis.
Pericardial Effusion
Pericarditis

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