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Signs & Symptoms of Pericarditis


The symptoms of pericarditis vary depending on the type of pericarditis. Episodes of acute pericarditis usually last for up to a few weeks before disappearing while symptoms of chronic pericarditis last for upwards of six months.

Some of the symptoms associated with pericarditis are:

  • Sharp stabbing pain behind the breastbone on the left side of the chest.
  • A dull ache that may vary in intensity.
  • Pain intensifies while lying down or inhaling deeply.
  • Sitting up or leaning forward eases the pain.
  • Coughing or swallowing food may intensify the pain.
  • Shortness of breath while lying down.
  • Low grade fever.
  • A general feeling of weakness and fatigue and a sense of unease.
  • Persistent dry cough
  • Swelling in the leg or abdomen.
Many of the symptoms of pericarditis are similar to those of a heart attack, so it is imperative to seek prompt medical attention if you experience any kind of chest pain. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to a favorable outcome while any delay in treatment can lead to complications that are life- threatening. As an example, the chest pain may be caused by pericarditis brought on by a heart attack or a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). 
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Frequently asked questions
References
  1. Brent E. Mabey, Ron M. Walls, Acute pericarditis, The Journal of Emergency Medicine, Volume 3, Issue 6, 1985, Pages 457-467, ISSN 0736-4679, 10.1016/0736-4679(85)90005-8.
  2. Susy S. Hota, ChiMing Chow, Daniel Bonneau, Robert J. Chisholm, Surgical treatment for incessant pericarditis, Canadian Journal of Cardiology, Volume 25, Issue 3, March 2009, Pages 161-162, ISSN 0828-282X, 10.1016/S0828-282X(09)70048-0.