Pericarditis
Pericarditis occurs when the pericardium of the heart becomes inflamed causing fluid buildup and irritation (Ismail, 2020). Patients that are suffering from pericarditis often complain that they have chest pain when they take a deep breath or lay down and it resolves if they sit up or lean forward. In order to diagnose pericarditis an EKG can be performed showing widespread saddle shaped ST elevation with PR depression. Laboratory tests that can be performed are a c-reactive protein as this will most often be elevated due to the inflammation. Patient’s must have two of the following in order to diagnose pericarditis: pericardial friction rub, widespread ST elevation and/or PR depression and a new pericardial effusion. Patients with pericardial effusions should be instructed to not exercise for at least 3 months, NSAIDs (Ibuprofen 600mg TID x1-2 weeks) and PPIs are used in conjunction to help with the pain.
