# Pericarditis

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**What is it?**</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Swelling and irritation of the thin, saclike tissue surrounding your heart (pericardium).</span>

#### **<span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">Symptoms:</span>**

- ##### Sharp chest pain that gets worse when you cough, lie down, or take a deep breath

##### Pericarditis is usually mild and goes away without treatment. If it's severe, you may need medication or, rarely, surgery.

##### It may be difficult to tell the difference between sudden (acute) pericarditis and pain due to a heart attack. If you have sudden, unexplained chest pain, seek emergency medical help.