What is pericarditis?

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium. The pericardium is the thin membrane (lining) around your heart. This means your pericardium becomes swollen and irritated.

The main types of pericarditis are:

• acute pericarditis — your symptoms start suddenly and usually last 4 to 6 weeks
• chronic pericarditis — your symptoms develop gradually and can last for 3 months or more
• recurrent pericarditis — new symptoms appear after you get better from acute pericarditis

What are the symptoms of pericarditis?

The most common symptom of pericarditis is sharp, stabbing chest pain. You will usually feel this in the centre of your chest.

The chest pain is usually worse when you breathe in or when you lie down. It may get better when you sit up and lean forward.

Depending on the cause of your pericarditis, you may get:

• fever
• muscle aches and pains
• heart palpitations
• shortness of breath
• weakness or fatigue
• nausea
• dry cough

You might also get swelling of your legs or abdomen (tummy).

What causes pericarditis?

Pericarditis can be caused by an infection with a:

• virus
• bacteria
• fungus
• parasite

Other causes of pericarditis are:

• autoimmune diseases, such as lupus
• complications after a heart attack
• a heart or chest injury
• some types of cancer
• kidney failure

Often, the cause of pericarditis isn’t known.

Some medicines can cause pericarditis. Pericarditis has also been reported as a rare side effect of some COVID-19 vaccines.

When should I see my doctor?

Always seek medical attention if you have any type of chest pain.

How is pericarditis diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and general health. They will perform a physical examination and listen to your heart using a stethoscope.

Your doctor may recommend tests such as:

• blood tests
• an electrocardiogram (ECG)
• a chest x-ray to check the size and shape of your heart
• other imaging tests, such as an echocardiogram (type of ultrasound of your heart), CT scan or MRI scan

Your doctor can usually confirm pericarditis with a physical examination and electrocardiogram (ECG).

How is pericarditis treated?

Treatment usually includes:

• rest
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aspirin
• colchicine, a prescription-only medicine

Some people with pericarditis need monitoring and treatment in hospital.

If your doctor finds an underlying cause, they will treat it where possible.

Your doctor will give you antibiotics if your pericarditis is caused by a bacterial infection.

Your doctor will advise you to avoid strenuous (hard) activities until your symptoms get better.

What are the complications of pericarditis?

You will be monitored for complications. If complications develop, you may need surgery.

Pericardial effusion is when fluid builds up between the 2 layers of your pericardium.

Cardiac tamponade is when fluid builds up so much that it puts pressure on your heart and causes your blood pressure to drop dramatically. This is life-threatening and requires emergency treatment.

It’s possible to develop chronic constrictive pericarditis — thickening and scarring of your pericardium. This can stop your heart beating properly and you will need surgery.

Can pericarditis be prevented?

Pericarditis can’t be prevented. You can reduce your risk of a heart attack, which can lead to pericarditis.

Read more about a healthy heart diet.

Resources and support

The Heart Foundation has more information about pericarditis and keeping your heart healthy.

For support and advice about your heart health, visit Heart Support Australia.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.