Your Care Instructions

Pericarditis occurs when the membrane that surrounds the heart and its major blood vessels becomes inflamed. In most cases, the cause of pericarditis is not known. It can be caused by a virus, a heart attack, chest injury, or another illness. Pericarditis causes sharp chest pain, which gets worse when you lie down or take a deep breath. The pain gets better if you lean forward or sit up.

Pericarditis often heals on its own and usually does not cause any further problems. Most people recover within a couple of weeks.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Watch for the return of your original symptoms. Sometimes pericarditis can come back after it has gone away.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Get plenty of rest until you feel better, especially if you have a fever.
• Avoid exercise and strenuous activity that has not been approved by your doctor. Ask your doctor when you can be active again.