Guest guest Posted March 21, 2004 Report Share Posted March 21, 2004 Pericarditis is an inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart. The sac becomes filled with fluid and will not allow the heart to expand properly. Pericarditis is usually a complication of viral infections. Pericarditis can also be associated with systemic diseases such as autoimmune disorders (such as Lupus), rheumatic fever, tuberculosis, cancer, leukemia, kidney failure, HIV infections, AIDS and hypothyroidism. It would cause symptoms of: Chest pain, caused by the inflamed pericardium rubbing against the heart. Usually relieved with sitting Pleuritis type: a sharp, stabbing pain May radiate to the neck, shoulder, back or abdomen Increases with deep breathing Breathing difficulty when lying down (the patient prefers standing or sitting upright) Splinting of ribs (bending over or holding the chest) with breathing Light Headedness while standing Dry cough Difficulty swallowing Hiccups Ankle, feet and leg swelling (occasionally) Anxiety Fatigue Fever This syndrome can be detected by listening to the heart with a stethoscope (hearing heart rubs), X-rays, or MRI of the heart and lungs. Depending on blood work to determine the cause of the infection, treatment can include antibiotics, antifungals, cortisteroids, and/or diuretics. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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