Pericarditis is a condition that causes inflammation of the pericardium, a fluid-filled sac surrounding the heart. At Summit Health, our specialists have extensive experience in managing pericarditis. We aim to educate our patients and guide them through their recovery so they can get the best possible treatment.

This article outlines what pericarditis is, what to avoid if you have it and how we treat it at Summit Health.

What is pericarditis?

Pericarditis is characterized by the swelling and irritation of the pericardium, the thin sac-like membrane surrounding your heart. The pericardium serves as a protective barrier, preventing the heart from rubbing against other organs in the chest.

Pericarditis often causes sharp chest pain and sometimes other symptoms, like low-grade fever, increased heart rate and feelings of weakness or fatigue.

The pain from pericarditis may feel worse when lying down or taking deep breaths and might improve when sitting up or leaning forward.

What should you avoid if you have pericarditis?

Managing pericarditis involves more than treatment—it's also about knowing what activities and actions to avoid to prevent worsening your condition:

• Physical overexertion: High-intensity activities can strain the heart and worsen the symptoms of pericarditis. Limiting strenuous exercise is crucial until your doctor gives you the all-clear.
• Certain medications: Some medications, particularly blood thinners or certain pain relievers, may exacerbate pericarditis symptoms or complicate the condition. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications.
• Inflammatory foods: While food doesn't cause pericarditis, diets high in processed foods and sugars can contribute to inflammation and may slow down recovery. Opting for a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, such as berries and citrus fruits, vegetables like leafy greens and whole grains like quinoa and brown rice, is advisable.

Does pericarditis go away?

Yes, pericarditis can go away.

Most cases, particularly acute pericarditis, resolve either on their own or with treatment, which typically involves anti-inflammatory medications. However, the duration and treatment can vary based on the underlying cause of the inflammation and the severity of the condition.

Chronic pericarditis may require longer-term management strategies. Individuals with pericarditis should follow their cardiologist’s advice closely to ensure proper recovery and prevent the condition from worsening.

Treating pericarditis at Summit Health

At the Summit Health cardiology department, we provide a patient-centered approach to treating pericarditis tailored to each individual's specific needs:

• Comprehensive diagnostic services: Our team uses a range of advanced diagnostic tools, including echocardiograms, electrocardiograms and blood tests, to accurately assess and diagnose pericarditis. This ensures that every patient receives the most effective treatment plan.
• Personalized treatment plans: Every patient is different, and treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation and pain, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine or corticosteroids. In more severe cases, procedures like pericardiocentesis—which remove fluid that has built up in the sac around the heart— may be necessary.
• Ongoing support and education: We believe in empowering our patients with information about their condition. At Summit Health, our team works together to ensure you understand your treatment plan and help guide you about how to manage your health to prevent future episodes.

Conclusion

Pericarditis can be a severe condition, but with early detection and prompt treatment, many people recover fully without lasting issues.

At Summit Health, our cardiology specialists are committed to providing the highest level of care, from diagnosis through to recovery. If you suspect you have symptoms of pericarditis or have been diagnosed with this condition, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you on your journey to recovery and help you return to a life of normalcy and comfort.

Ready to take the next step in your heart health journey? Find a cardiologist at Summit Health today to schedule a consultation. Our team of experts is ready to provide personalized care and comprehensive treatment options tailored to your needs.

Let us help you manage your condition effectively and improve your quality of life.