What is pericarditis?

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, a stretchy sac-like cover surrounding your heart.

The pericardium consists of two layers of thin tissue with a small amount of fluid between them. It protects your heart from infection and from rubbing on surrounding tissues when it beats, which can cause irritation. When the pericardium becomes irritated, it becomes inflamed, and pericarditis develops.

Male healthcare provider using a stethoscope to listen to an older male patient's heart for signs of pericarditis

Types of pericarditis

There are different types of pericarditis, with variations depending on how it develops:

  • Infectious pericarditis: Developing as a result of a viral, bacterial or other infection.
  • Traumatic pericarditis: Developing as a result of trauma to the chest, such as after a car accident.
  • Idiopathic pericarditis: Developing without a clear-cut or definitive cause.
  • Constrictive pericarditis: Scar tissue develops in the pericardium, causing the tissue to thicken and lose its elasticity. This type may lead to long-term issues resembling heart failure.
  • Effusive-constrictive pericarditis: When fluid builds up in the pericardium.

Symptoms of pericarditis

The symptoms of pericarditis vary based on its type. It is categorized into different groups depending on the symptom pattern and duration.

Risk factors for pericarditis

Anyone can develop pericarditis.

Different factors may cause pericarditis, and it is not uncommon for a single, exact cause to remain unknown. Some causes include:

  • Bacterial infections
  • Cancer
  • Certain medications, including some blood thinners and anti-seizure drugs
  • Injury or trauma to the chest
  • Kidney failure
  • Viral infections, such as COVID-19 and pneumonia

Additionally, chronic and recurrent pericarditis can be caused by autoimmune disorders, conditions in which the body attacks healthy tissue, or other conditions that affect the immune system, such as:

Your risk of pericarditis is higher after:

What are the complications of pericarditis?

  • Pericardial effusion: Occurs when fluid builds up in the pericardium.
  • Constrictive pericarditis: Occurs when the pericardium becomes thick and stiff. This can happen due to inflammation or scarring, making it harder for the heart to fill with blood properly.
  • Cardiac tamponade: Occurs when fluid builds up in the sac around the heart and puts pressure on the heart, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. This is a medical emergency.
patient complaining about chest pain to his doctor

How is pericarditis diagnosed?

To diagnose pericarditis, your provider will ask you about your medical history, including any recent injuries, illnesses or infections. They will also ask you to describe your symptoms and if anything makes symptoms better or worse.

Your provider will carry out a physical exam and listen to your heart. They may hear the heart and pericardium rubbing together or sounds caused by excess fluid in the lungs or pericardium.

Based on your exam, your provider may order one of the following diagnostic tests to gather more information.

Treating pericarditis

With treatment, most people recover fully from pericarditis without complications.

Treatment varies based on the cause, severity and type. The main goals of treatment are to:

  • Decrease pain
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Treat the underlying cause when known
  • Watch for and prevent complications

If your cardiologist can uncover what’s causing your pericarditis, getting treatment for that condition may be all you need.

If the cause is unknown, your treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation or manage symptoms. Your cardiologist will likely recommend rest and activity restrictions.

If fluid buildup in the pericardium affects your heart’s function, you may need surgery to drain the excess fluid. Often, cardiac surgeons can make an incision in the pericardium and allow fluid to drain into the abdomen.

Man recovering from pericarditis treatment and his partner holding hands while enjoying a walk outside on a sunny day

Find a location near you

With advanced pericarditis care, we can lower your risk of complications and help you return to your usual routine. We can help you get the care you need to treat and recover from pericarditis at a location that fits your needs. Our cardiologists are available at many locations, including our specialized locations across North and Central Texas.

Loading locations...

Loading locations...