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Pericarditis is the swelling and irritation of the thin, saclike tissue surrounding the heart, known as the pericardium. This inflammation causes the layers of the sac to rub against each other, typically resulting in sharp chest pain. While often mild and able to clear up without treatment, more severe cases may require medication or surgery to prevent complications like pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade.
Common symptoms
Sharp or stabbing chest pain behind the breastbone or on the left side
Chest pain that worsens when coughing, lying down, or taking a deep breath
Chest pain that improves when sitting up or leaning forward
Pain spreading to the left shoulder and neck
Shortness of breath, especially when reclining
Heart palpitations or a racing heartbeat
Low-grade fever
Fatigue or general feeling of weakness
Cough
Swelling of the legs, feet, or abdomen
Possible causes
Viral infections (such as those causing the common cold or flu)
Immune system response after heart damage (e.g., heart attack or heart surgery/Dressler syndrome)
Autoimmune disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
Physical injury to the heart or chest
Other health conditions including kidney failure, cancer, or tuberculosis
Side effects from certain medications (e.g., phenytoin or procainamide)
Idiopathic causes (where the exact cause is unknown)
Medical treatment
Rest and limited strenuous activity
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like high-dose aspirin or ibuprofen
Colchicine to reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence
Corticosteroids such as prednisone for cases resistant to other medicines
Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is the underlying cause
Pericardiocentesis (a procedure to drain excess fluid from the pericardium)
Pericardiectomy (surgical removal of the pericardium in chronic cases)
Ayurvedic perspective
Pericarditis is understood as an inflammatory condition of the Hridyavarana (the protective sac or pericardium surrounding the heart). It is often classified as a manifestation of Pittaja Hridroga (inflammatory heart disease) or Hridyavarana Shotha (inflammation of the pericardium). Ayurveda views this condition as a result of Pitta aggravation causing heat and swelling, often complicated by Vata (causing sharp pain) and sometimes Kapha if pericardial effusion (fluid accumulation) occurs. It is frequently linked to systemic conditions like Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis) or Upasargaja (infectious) factors.
Ayurvedic dietary guidelines
Consume light, warm, and easily digestible foods (Laghu Ahara) to maintain Agni.
Include cooling and heart-friendly foods like pomegranate, grapes, and bottle gourd.
Avoid spicy, pungent (Katu), and extremely sour (Amla) foods that aggravate Pitta.
Limit salt intake to prevent fluid retention (edema).
Incorporate garlic and ginger in moderation for their anti-inflammatory properties.
