Diseases and Conditions
Pericarditis
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Preparing for an appointment
Overview
Pericarditis is swelling and irritation of the thin, saclike tissue surrounding your heart (pericardium). Pericarditis often causes sharp chest pain and sometimes other symptoms. The chest pain occurs when the irritated layers of the pericardium rub against each other.
Pericarditis is usually mild and goes away without treatment. Treatment for more-severe cases may include medications and, rarely, surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment may help reduce the risk of long-term complications from pericarditis.