Addressing Recurrent Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, a sac-like structure with two thin layers of tissue that surrounds the heart to hold it in place and help it work. A small amount of fluid keeps the layers separate so there’s less friction between them as the heart beats.

Pericarditis can be attributed to several factors, including viral, bacterial, fungal and other infections. Other possible causes of pericarditis include heart attack or heart surgery, inflammatory conditions, radiation, injuries and medications, such as penicillin and doxorubicin.

Symptoms of recurrent pericarditis include recurring episodes of:

• Chest pain, often in the middle or left side of the chest, with referral to the neck, left shoulder or arm. Pain is generally sharp or stabbing in nature
• Chest pain that is worse when lying flat, with body motion, during inhaling or during swallowing that may be relieved by leaning forward while seated
• Low-grade, intermittent fever
• Weakness, malaise
• Difficulty breathing, cough, palpitations and difficulty swallowing
• Tiredness