Pericarditis is a term that refers to the inflammation of the pericardium. The pericardium is a fluid-filled sac that surrounds and protects your heart.
The main symptom of pericarditis is a sudden sharp, stabbing pain behind your breastbone.
Pericarditis has a range of causes, including:
- viral infection,
- bacterial infection,
- trauma or injury to the chest, and
- a complication arising from recent heart surgery.
In the majority of cases there is no obvious reason why the pericardium becomes inflamed (idiopathic pericarditis).
How common is pericarditis?
Pericarditis is a relatively common heart condition. It is estimated that 5% of all admissions to Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments for severe chest pains are due to pericarditis.
Pericarditis is more common in men than women. It can affect people of all ages, but most recorded cases occur in adults.
Outlook
The outlook for pericarditis is usually very good. The inflammation of the pericardium is generally short-lived, and most people will make a full recovery within seven days. The type of painkillers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to be effective in reducing the inflammation and relieving symptoms of chest pain.
An estimated 30% of people will have recurring bouts of pericarditis, although the symptoms are usually milder.
Complications of pericarditis
In a small number of cases, pericarditis can trigger more serious complications. These are described below.
- Cardiac tamponade: an excess of fluid builds up inside the pericardium. The extra fluid places too much pressure on the heart and prevents it from beating properly.
- Constrictive pericarditis: extensive inflammation of the pericardium leaves it hardened and scarred. The hardened pericardium then contracts around the heart and prevents it from beating properly.
Both complications can be life-threatening and require immediate treatment. See Complications, above.
