What is Pericarditis ?
Pericarditis is a condition in which the pericardium, the sac that surrounds the heart, becomes inflamed. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations.
Pericarditis can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infections, bacterial infections, autoimmune diseases, heart attacks, injury to the chest, and certain medications. In some cases, the cause of pericarditis is unknown.
The diagnosis of pericarditis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiogram. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend a pericardial biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for pericarditis depends on the underlying cause of the condition and the severity of symptoms. In most cases, treatment involves the use of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat an underlying infection. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove fluid from the pericardium or to repair a damaged pericardium.
It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you experience symptoms of pericarditis, as untreated pericarditis can lead to serious complications, such as fluid buildup around the heart and decreased heart function.
