What Is Pericarditis? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium—the thin, two-layer membrane that surrounds your heart. While it can affect anyone, it’s most common in men between the ages of 16 and 65. The hallmark symptom? Sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or lying down.

Though it can sound alarming, most cases of pericarditis are mild and resolve on their own. Still, it’s important to understand what causes this condition, how to recognize it, and when to seek medical care.

What Causes Pericarditis?

There isn’t always a single clear cause of pericarditis, but several factors can increase your risk:

• Viral infections (most common cause)
• Autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Heart surgery or heart attack recovery
• Chest trauma or injury
• Kidney failure or cancer
• Certain medications that affect immune function

In some cases, fluid can build up around the heart—a complication known as a pericardial effusion. If untreated, this can lead to cardiac tamponade, a serious medical emergency.

Common Symptoms of Pericarditis

The most recognizable symptom of pericarditis is sharp, stabbing chest pain, typically felt behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest. This pain may worsen when:

• Breathing deeply
• Lying flat
• Coughing or swallowing

Other symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or low-grade fever
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Dry cough
• Pain in the shoulders, back, or neck

‍Pericarditis pain is often confused with other conditions, including heart attacks and pleural effusion (fluid in the lungs). Always seek medical attention for sudden chest pain.

Acute vs. Chronic Pericarditis

• Acute pericarditis develops quickly and usually resolves within a few weeks.
• Chronic or recurrent pericarditis lasts longer than three months or returns after treatment.
• Constrictive pericarditis is a rare, long-term complication where scar tissue causes the pericardium to stiffen, restricting heart function.

How Is Pericarditis Treated?

Mild Cases

• Rest and time
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, aspirin)

Persistent or Recurrent Cases

• Prescription anti-inflammatories (colchicine or corticosteroids)
• Treatment of the underlying condition (e.g., autoimmune disease, infection)

Severe or Fluid-Related Cases

• Pericardiocentesis – A procedure that removes excess fluid from the pericardial sac using a small needle
• Pericardiectomy – Surgical removal of the pericardium in rare cases of constrictive pericarditis

Pericarditis vs. Pleural Effusion: What’s the Difference?

Both conditions cause chest discomfort but affect different parts of the body:

• Pericarditis: Inflammation of the heart’s outer lining
• Pleural effusion: Fluid buildup in the lungs’ surrounding membranes

Your doctor may use imaging (echocardiogram, CT scan, or chest X-ray) to determine the cause of your chest pain.

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• New or worsening chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fever or fatigue following a cold or infection
• Chest pain following heart surgery or a heart attack

Early evaluation is essential to prevent complications and rule out other serious conditions.

Expert Cardiovascular Care in Northern California

At BASS Medical Group, our Primary Care Providers and cardiovascular specialists offer comprehensive diagnostic tools and treatment options for heart-related conditions like pericarditis, pleural effusion, and more.

With convenient locations across Walnut Creek and the San Francisco Bay Area, we're here to help you get answers and feel better.

Book an appointment today to get evaluated and protect your heart health.