What is pericarditis?
Pericarditis means the protective sac around the heart has become inflamed. This is usually a complication stemming from viral, fungal or bacterial infections.
Pericarditis treatment
The goal of treatment for pericarditis is to determine and eliminate the cause of the disease. Treatment often involves medications, such as pain medicines, anti-inflammatory drugs and/or antibiotics. Pericarditis may last from two to six weeks, and it may come back.
Treatment plans for patients will be determined by their care team based on age, medical history, type and stage of pericardial disorders and personal preferences. Pericarditis treatment options may include:
- Surgery
- Aspiration or removal of excess fluid
- Medication