Pericardial Disease

Pericardial disease refers to any condition that affects the pericardium, the protective sac surrounding the heart. The pericardium serves as a cushion, protecting the heart from infection, trauma, and friction. When the pericardium becomes inflamed or damaged, it can lead to various disorders, such as pericarditis, pericardial effusion, and cardiac tamponade. These conditions can disrupt normal heart function. 

Causes 

• Infections: Viral infections, especially from coxsackievirus or adenovirus, are common causes of pericarditis. Bacterial infections and tuberculosis can also cause inflammation.
• Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma can lead to inflammation of the pericardium.
• Trauma: Accidents or surgery, can cause damage to the pericardium.
• Cancer: Primary cancers of the pericardium or metastatic cancer from other organs can cause pericardial effusion or constrictive pericarditis.
• Uremia: Chronic kidney disease with elevated waste products in the blood can cause pericarditis.
• Radiation: Chest radiation therapy can lead to scarring of the pericardium, causing constriction or effusion.

Symptoms 

• Chest Pain: Often sharp or pleuritic (worsening with deep breaths), especially in pericarditis.
• Fatigue: Reduced blood flow can cause weakness and tiredness.
• Swelling: Swelling in the abdomen, legs, or ankles can be caused by constrictive pericarditis or pericardial effusion.
• Tachycardia: An increased heart rate is common in response to pressure on the heart.
• Hypotension: Low blood pressure, especially in cardiac tamponade, due to impaired heart function.

Complications of Pericardial Disease

If left untreated, pericardial disease can lead to:

• Heart Failure: Due to reduced heart function from constriction or effusion.
• Shock: Severe cardiac tamponade can lead to life-threatening shock if not treated promptly.
• Chronic Pain and Fatigue: Long-term consequences, especially in chronic pericarditis and constrictive pericarditis.

Why should you choose A Cardiac Surgeon At Aster Hospitals

Our advanced imaging facilities, including high-resolution echocardiography and cardiac MRI, enable precise diagnosis and monitoring of pericardial conditions. A team of experienced cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and imaging specialists collaborates to provide personalized treatment plans, ranging from medical management to advanced interventional procedures like pericardiocentesis and pericardiectomy. 

Aster's dedicated pericardial disease clinics offer long-term follow-up care, patient education, and support for managing chronic conditions. With a focus on innovative therapies, research, and holistic patient care.