Pericarditis Treatment. Pericarditis is a condition that occurs when the pericardium, the thin sac surrounding the heart, becomes inflamed. This can cause chest pain, fever, and other symptoms. Pericarditis can be acute, lasting a few days to several weeks, or chronic, lasting months to years. It can occur in people of all ages, but it is more common in men than women.
According to the American Heart Association, Pericarditis affects approximately 1 in 1,000 people in the general population. However, the incidence of Pericarditis has increased significantly in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have shown that up to 30% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 develop Pericarditis or myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle.
Treatment for Pericarditis
The treatment of Pericarditis depends on the severity and cause of the inflammation. In mild cases, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be sufficient to relieve symptoms. However, in more severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary.
Colchicine is a medication that has been used for years to treat gout, a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. In recent years, Colchicine has also been found effective in the treatment of Pericarditis.
Studies have shown that Colchicine can reduce the recurrence of Pericarditis by up to 50%. In addition, Colchicine can reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as chest pain and fever. Colchicine is typically given in a low dose, usually 0.5 to 1 mg per day, for several months.
Post-COVID Pericarditis Treatment
Post-COVID Pericarditis is a new phenomenon that has emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Post-COVID Pericarditis occurs when patients who have recovered from COVID-19 develop inflammation of the pericardium weeks to months after their initial infection.
The treatment of post-COVID Pericarditis is similar to that of other types of Pericarditis. However, given the potential severity of post-COVID Pericarditis, Colchicine has emerged as a promising treatment option. According to a recent study, Colchicine can reduce the risk of recurrent Pericarditis in patients with post-COVID Pericarditis by up to 75%.
Medications That Cause Pericarditis
Pericarditis can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications. Some medications, such as hydralazine, procainamide, and isoniazid, have can cause Pericarditis.
If you are taking a medication that can cause Pericarditis, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of continuing the medication, especially if you have ad COVID-19. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend switching to a different medication or adjust your doses.