Pericarditis

Inflammation of the fluid-filled layer that surrounds the heart

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The pericardium is a membrane surrounding the heart that contains pericardial fluid. Pericarditis occurs when this layer becomes swollen or inflamed. It usually develops very quickly and can last for several months.

Our Cardiology Program has access to the most sophisticated diagnostic tools to diagnose and treat pericarditis. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to avoid serious complications such as pericardial effusion, a buildup of the fluid around the heart.

Types of Pericarditis

The major types of pericarditis include:

• Acute – Begins suddenly and is often accompanied by sharp and stabbing chest pain that may increase by breathing, coughing, or lying flat.

• Recurrent – Develops for a second time after the patient has had no symptoms for four weeks.

• Chronic – Unlike acute pericarditis, this type begins gradually and is long-lasting causing fluid build-up in the pericardium.

• Restrictive – A condition where the fluid in the pericardial becomes thick or stiff and interferes with the normal diastolic filling of the heart which can lead to severe complications.

• Dressler’s syndrome – Pericarditis is the result of the immune system responding to heart damage from a heart attack, traumatic injury, or surgery.