Health Topics for Infectious Diseases

Department of Internal Medicine: Infectious Diseases

Department of Internal Medicine: Travel Medicine

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the sac that surrounds and supports the heart. This sac is called the pericardium. This inflammation can cause a build-up of fluid, blood, or pus that can cause the sack to squeeze the heart. This squeezing makes the heart's job of pumping blood difficult.

Symptoms include:

• chest pain that may be relieved with sitting and leaning forward
• fatigue shortness of breath or chest pain with taking a deep breath and
• fever

Pericarditis can be caused by certain medications or an injury to the heart, as well as a wide range of illnesses, including:

• viral or bacterial infections
• cancer
• rheumatic fever and
• systemic diseases

People often confuse the symptoms of pericarditis with heart attack because the symptoms are similar. If left untreated, pericarditis can be very serious, result in permanent damage to the heart, and even fatal. Most people recover fully from it.

Pericarditis is treated with medication to reduce the inflammation and fluid buildup and to relieve pain. Bed rest is important until the condition has been controlled. Sometimes surgery is necessary to cut a window in the sac to allow it to drain.

It is very important to see your healthcare provider if you are having any kind of chest pain or shortness of breath. Pericarditis is serious, but can be effectively treated with proper care.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File INFE4725.rf2 VRS# 4725 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.