What happens when the pericardium is inflamed?
Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, which causes its two layers to rasp and rub against each other as the heart contracts and relaxes. The symptoms may be similar to those of heart attack and include chest pain and abnormal heart rhythms.
Can pericarditis cause stomach problems?
Chronic pericarditis often causes tiredness, coughing and shortness of breath. Chest pain is sometimes absent with this type of pericarditis. Severe cases of chronic pericarditis can lead to swelling in the stomach, feet, ankles and legs and hypotension (low blood pressure).
What is the inflammation of the outer layer of the heart?
Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac (membrane) that surrounds the heart. The pericardium holds the heart in place and helps it work properly. There is a small amount of fluid between the inner and outer layers of the pericardium.
Does pericarditis cause stomach bloating?
Severe cases of chronic effusive pericarditis may cause hypotension, or low blood pressure, and swelling in the stomach (ascites) and extremities (edema).
What does inflammation around the heart feel like?
swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, and hands. chest pain or pressure. shortness of breath. heart palpitations, which feel as if the heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too fast.
Is stomach pain a symptom of myocarditis?
Severe abdominal pain, often accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms and fever, may be the first and most prominent symptom of myocardial or pericardial disease.
How serious is inflammation around the heart?
It can affect many areas of the body and is a cause of many major diseases, including cancer, ischemic heart disease, and autoimmune diseases. Inflammation in the heart causes damage and can lead to serious health problems. There are three main types of heart inflammation: endocarditis, myocarditis, and pericarditis.
Does heart inflammation go away on its own?
Heart inflammation is commonly caused by infections, including viruses or bacteria, although it may also occur in response to other factors, such as an autoimmune disease or certain medications. Mild cases may resolve on their own, but people may need medication or a medical procedure to alleviate the condition.
Do you need to go to hospital for pericarditis?
If a bacterial infection is causing your pericarditis, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic or other medicine. You may need to stay in the hospital during treatment so your doctor can check you for complications. Symptoms of acute pericarditis can last from one to three weeks.
What causes pericarditis flare ups?
Causes of pericarditis The cause of pericarditis is often unknown, though viral infections are a common reason. Pericarditis may occur after a respiratory or digestive system infection. Chronic and recurring pericarditis may be caused by autoimmune disorders such as lupus, scleroderma and rheumatoid arthritis.