Treatment Options for Pericarditis: A Comprehensive Guide

Pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, requires a tailored treatment approach based on its underlying cause. Prompt and appropriate management is essential to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and promote recovery.

Medications for Pain and Inflammation

The first line of treatment for pericarditis typically involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or celecoxib. These medications help reduce inflammation and alleviate chest pain, which is a common symptom of the condition. In some cases, colchicine may also be prescribed alongside NSAIDs to enhance symptom relief and lower the risk of recurrence.

Treatment for Tuberculous Pericarditis

Antituberculosis Therapy

If the pericarditis is caused by tuberculosis, a full course of antitubercular medications is essential. Standard drugs include isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. This regimen must be followed carefully under medical supervision to ensure complete eradication of the infection and to prevent drug resistance.

Managing Purulent Pericarditis

Purulent pericarditis, often caused by bacterial infection, requires prompt antibiotic treatment. The choice of antibiotic depends on culture and sensitivity results to ensure the selected drug is effective against the specific pathogen. In addition to antibiotics, repeated pericardiocentesis (drainage of fluid around the heart) may be necessary to remove infected fluid and reduce pressure on the heart.

Surgical Intervention for Constrictive Pericarditis

When pericarditis progresses to a chronic constrictive form, surgical intervention may be required. A procedure known as pericardiectomy—removal of the thickened and inflamed pericardium—can help restore normal heart function and relieve symptoms such as fatigue and swelling.

Addressing Uremic Pericarditis

Enhanced Dialysis and Renal Support

In cases of uremic pericarditis, which is linked to kidney failure, improving dialysis efficiency is crucial. Optimizing dialysis helps remove toxins that accumulate in the blood and contribute to pericardial inflammation. Managing the underlying renal condition is key to alleviating symptoms and preventing further complications.