While treatable and generally not considered dangerous, pericarditis can mimic potentially life-threatening conditions like aheart attack.
It is crucial to see a healthcare provider immediately to evaluate the cause of the pain.
It will also explore pericarditis prognosis and what happens when episodes recur.
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The purpose of the pericardium is to stabilize and fix the heart’s position within the chest.
Sharpchest painis the principalsymptom of an inflamed pericardium, of which there are several possible causes.
What Causes Pericarditis?
In such scenarios, healthcare providers typically presume the culprit to be a viral infection.
Can COVID-19 Cause Pericarditis?
Pericarditis can occur during an acute COVID-19 infection or after recovery.
The chest pain of pericarditis can be accompanied by shortness of breath (dyspnea) and a mild fever.
Moreover, there is a rare risk ofcardiac tamponadedeveloping.
Another anti-inflammatory medication,colchicine, is often given in combination with an NSAID.
Besides alleviating symptoms, research has found that colchicine reduces the likelihood of pericarditis recurring.
Besides anti-inflammatory treatments, the underlying cause of the pericarditis must be addressed.
For example, bacterial pericarditis requires treatment with one or more antibiotics.
Complications
For significant pericardial effusions or for cardiac tamponade, an invasive procedure called apericardiocentesisis performed.
The fluid is then drained out through a thin tube called a catheter.
Hospitalization
Most people with pericarditis can be treated at home under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Negative Impact on Quality of Life
The impact of recurrent pericarditis goes beyond burdensome and distressing symptoms.
Research has found that subsequent pericarditis episodes reduce health-related quality of life and work productivity.
In cases of recurrent pericarditis, NSAIDs and colchicine are usually tried first.
Steroids may also be given in select cases.
How Do Providers Diagnose Pericarditis?
Also, ask your provider about specific exercise and sleep instructions.
For example, your provider may recommend sleeping in an elevated position to minimize chest discomfort.
For athletes, at least three months of exercise restriction is often advised.
Its hallmark symptom is sharp chest pain that worsens when taking a deep breath and improves when leaning forward.
Potential causes include a viral infection, autoimmune disease, cancer, or chest trauma.
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