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Pericardial Disorders
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Blood Heart Circulation

Pericardial Disorders

The pericardium is a protective membrane surrounding the heart, and disorders affecting this sac can lead to inflammation, fluid buildup, or impaired heart function.

Overview

The pericardium is a membrane or sac that surrounds the heart, holding it in place and helping it function properly. Problems with this sac include:

  • Pericarditis: An inflammation of the sac, which can be caused by viruses or other infections, heart attacks, heart surgery, injuries, other medical conditions, or certain medicines.
  • Pericardial effusion: The buildup of fluid in the sac.
  • Cardiac tamponade: A serious condition where fluid buildup in the sac interferes with the heart's function.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of pericardial problems include chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Fever is a common symptom of acute pericarditis. Doctors typically use a physical exam, imaging tests, and heart tests to reach a diagnosis, and treatment is determined based on the underlying cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pericarditis pain is usually sharp, pleuritic, and improves when you sit up and lean forward, whereas heart‑attack pain is often pressure‑like, may radiate to the arm or jaw, and does not change with position. An ECG, cardiac enzymes, and sometimes an echocardiogram help differentiate the two. If you’re unsure, seek emergency care immediately.
Most patients can resume light activities after 1–2 weeks if pain and inflammation have resolved and the doctor confirms no residual effusion. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks, and a gradual return should be guided by repeat ECG or echocardiogram results.
Maintain good blood pressure control, avoid excessive alcohol, and stay up‑to‑date on vaccinations (especially flu and COVID‑19) to lower infection risk. A low‑salt diet can help prevent fluid overload, and regular, moderate aerobic activity (as cleared by your cardiologist) supports overall heart health.
Pericardiocentesis is recommended when fluid buildup causes cardiac tamponade (low blood pressure, muffled heart sounds, jugular venous distension) or when the effusion is large, rapidly growing, or of unknown cause. Risks include bleeding, infection, injury to the heart or surrounding structures, and arrhythmias. The procedure is usually performed under ultrasound guidance to minimize complications.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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