Do I Have Pericarditis?

Are you a man aged 16 to 65?

Do you have sharp, stabbing chest pain in the center or on the left side of your chest?

Does your pain get worse when you cough, swallow, take deep breaths or lie down?

Does your pain lessens when you sit up and lean forward?

Do you have pain in your back, neck or left shoulder?

Do you feel the need to bend over or hold your chest to breathe more comfortably?

Do you have shortness of breath when reclining?

Do you have a dry cough, low-grade fever or an overall sense of weakness and fatigue?

Do you have heart palpitations?

Do you have swelling in your abdomen or feet, legs and ankles?

Have you recently had a cold or flu?

Have you ever had a heart attack or heart surgery?

Do you have a family history of heart disease?

Do you have rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or have you suffered a chest injury due to a car accident or other type of accident?

Have you had similar symptoms in the past?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have pericarditis. Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium – the thin, two layered, saclike membrane that surrounds your heart. Numerous pericarditis symptoms resemble symptoms of the other heart and lung conditions and sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish them. Very often, pericardial pain can be similar to the pain of a heart attack. Therefore if you have any type of chest pain or some other symptoms that worry you, it is necessary to consult your doctor for further evaluation.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have pericarditis.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have pericarditis. Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium which is a thin, double-walled sac that covers the outer surface of your heart. The pericardium provides lubrication for the heart, protects it from infection, sets your heart in the chest cavity and limits its motion. In severe cases of pericarditis, the pericardium can become hard and thick, interfering with your heart's movements so your heart cannot function properly. Please contact your doctor for the evaluation of your symptoms. Depending on the cause, pericarditis can be treated with various medications.