Pericarditis...does it ever go??

[Rachyt78]

Hi, I got diagnosed with pericarditis last June after collapsing with chest pain and being admitted to hospital. I had recently had a stressful separation from my husband and had a kidney infection which they think could have caused it. Started on colchicine 3x daily and ibuprofen with omeprazole. I returned to work after 3 weeks, I work in theatres and my job is stressful and physically demanding. Unfortunately after a week back I relapsed and was off another 3 weeks, my gp kept me on colchicine for 6 months.

3 weeks ago I got taken into hospital again, same diagnosis after ecg, x Ray, blood tests and heart echo, started back on meds again for 6 months. I was unwell at Christmas again with a kidney infection and the flu.

I’m currently off work, due to go back on 4th Feb, however I’m still experiencing chest pains upon exertion and last night while I was in bed it was so bad, I’m also worried now I’ll relapse again when I go back to work, or if I get ill will it trigger it to come back? It’s actually giving me anxiety!

Can anyone else advise me on their experiences? Thank you

[Philra]

Hi

So sorry you’ve got Pericarditis - I have it too. I’m also an admin of the UK Pericarditis group. You are welcome to join. We have over 220 patients on the group. Here is the link:

facebook.com/groups/1095344...

When you are afflicted with Pericarditis it’s essential that you rest and that you are also prescribed the right meds from your cardiologist. I note you are on Colchicine and that certainly is the correct med for treatment of Pericarditis.

Incidentally I didn’t rest when I first became ill with Pericarditis. In hindsight I would have stayed off work until I recovered.

Regards

Phil

[CharlesL]

Hi Rachyt

Just go to the gym and do what you are comfortable with and try to forget about problems and pain. Give yourself time

Forgive me if this sounds simplistic

Take care

C