Pericarditis is a serious medical condition in which the pericardium, or the sac surrounding the heart, becomes inflamed due to a bacterial infection. As its name suggests, bacterial pericarditis is caused only by bacterial infections. As the inflamed pericardium rubs against the heart, it inflames further due to friction and causes a lot of pain and discomfort.
As is evident from its name, bacterial pericarditis is caused due to bacterial infections. The bacteria usually associated with this condition include staphylococci, hemophilus influenza, streptococci, pneumococci, and meningococci. Although anyone could develop bacterial pericarditis, it is most commonly seen in men between the ages of 20 to 50. Usually, an infection of the upper respiratory system precedes bacterial pericarditis. Some of the other causes of the condition include bacterial infection in the blood, bacterial skin and mouth infections, and recent heart surgeries.
There are several different tests performed for the diagnosis of this condition. The doctor first performs a thorough physical check-up and listens for heart sounds that sound far away or faint. When the doctor listens to your heart with the stethoscope, they may hear the sound of friction or rubbing. There may be signs of presence of pericardial effusion or fluid in the pericardium. This can be determined by various imaging tests such as a simple X-ray. Other clinical tests for the condition include chest CT or MRI scans, echocardiogram and ECG. Doctors may also order blood cultures and a complete blood count to check for bacterial infection.
Treatment for pericarditis is aimed at treating the infection. The first aim is to cure the underlying infection. The doctor usually prescribes an antibiotic to cure the infection and pain relievers for the pain. Anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to relieve the inflammation in the pericardial lining. In rare cases, there may be severe complications due to which the doctor may have to resort to surgery.
There are no specific home remedies for pericarditis, but doctors recommend proper home care along with medications to improve the prognosis and ensure speedy recovery. Almost all physicians and cardiologists recommend complete bed rest with the head elevated to reduce the load on the heart. Along with this, you may also consume certain herbs that improve the functioning of your heart and increase your immunity.
Vitamins like vitamins C and A can boost your immunity and help your body fight against bacterial infections. You may also consume zinc supplements as zinc is one of the most vital minerals for boosting immunity. Bromelain, a naturally occurring enzyme found in pineapples, can be useful for reducing inflammation in the pericardium.
Apart from these supplements, you may also alter your diet to avoid foods that may further weaken your immunity and strain your heart. Avoid saturated fats, sugars, and alcohol and include more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Doctors and dieticians recommend a low-sodium diet for those who suffer from recurring or constrictive pericarditis.
References:
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.