Pericarditis

What is it?

Swelling and irritation of the thin, saclike tissue surrounding your heart (pericardium).

Symptoms:

• 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.