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Pericarditis

What is Pericarditis?

Pericarditis is a condition that affects the sac around the heart called the pericardium. When the pericardium becomes inflamed, it can cause chest pain and discomfort. This pain may feel sharp or stabbing and can sometimes spread to the neck or shoulders. Pericarditis can make it difficult to breathe deeply or lie flat, and it may also cause a fever.



Diagnosing Pericarditis

If you or your child experience symptoms of pericarditis, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor will ask about the symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may also order tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or an echocardiogram to get a better look at the heart. These tests can help determine if the pericardium is inflamed and if pericarditis is the cause of the symptoms.



Treating Pericarditis

Treatment for pericarditis aims to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help manage the chest pain. In some cases, prescription medications like colchicine or corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities while recovering from pericarditis. Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.



Preventing Pericarditis

While pericarditis cannot always be prevented, there are some measures you can take to reduce the risk. It is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly, to prevent infections that can lead to pericarditis. Avoiding close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections or viral illnesses can also help reduce the risk. If you have a known underlying condition that can cause pericarditis, such as autoimmune disorders or kidney disease, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage the condition and reduce the risk of pericarditis.



What is Pericarditis?

Pericarditis is a condition that affects the sac around the heart called the pericardium. When the pericardium becomes inflamed, it can cause chest pain and discomfort. This pain may feel sharp or stabbing and can sometimes spread to the neck or shoulders. Pericarditis can make it difficult to breathe deeply or lie flat, and it may also cause a fever.



Diagnosing Pericarditis

If you or your child experience symptoms of pericarditis, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor will ask about the symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may also order tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or an echocardiogram to get a better look at the heart. These tests can help determine if the pericardium is inflamed and if pericarditis is the cause of the symptoms.



Treating Pericarditis

Treatment for pericarditis aims to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help manage the chest pain. In some cases, prescription medications like colchicine or corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities while recovering from pericarditis. Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.



Preventing Pericarditis

While pericarditis cannot always be prevented, there are some measures you can take to reduce the risk. It is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly, to prevent infections that can lead to pericarditis. Avoiding close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections or viral illnesses can also help reduce the risk. If you have a known underlying condition that can cause pericarditis, such as autoimmune disorders or kidney disease, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage the condition and reduce the risk of pericarditis.



Graphic representation of Pericarditis

Symptom list:

Pericarditis

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Financial support

Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.

p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.

Emotional support

Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!

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Sources:

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