US Medical Term · conditions
Pericarditis
Pericarditis
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Pericarditis |
| Spanish (Español) | Pericarditis |
| Chinese (中文) | 心包炎 |
| Korean (한국어) | 심막염 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Viêm màng ngoài tim |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Pericarditis |
| Portuguese (Português) | Pericardite |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | เยื่อหุ้มหัวใจอักเสบ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 心膜炎 |
What it means
Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered, fluid-filled sac surrounding the heart. The most common cause is viral infection, but it can also result from autoimmune diseases, bacterial infections, heart attack, or as a reaction to certain medications. The hallmark symptom is sharp chest pain that often worsens when lying down and improves when sitting up and leaning forward. Other symptoms include fever and shortness of breath. Most cases of acute pericarditis are self-limiting and respond well to anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs and colchicine. Recurrent pericarditis may require additional treatment.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have sharp chest pain that is worse when I lie down — my doctor suspects pericarditis.
Tengo dolor agudo en el pecho que empeora cuando me acuesto. Mi médico sospecha pericarditis.
Is pericarditis dangerous and can it damage my heart permanently?
¿Es peligrosa la pericarditis y puede dañar mi corazón de forma permanente?
How long does it take to recover from pericarditis and when can I return to exercise?
¿Cuánto tiempo tarda en recuperarse uno de la pericarditis y cuándo puedo volver a hacer ejercicio?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
I30 Acute pericarditisRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026