Acute pericarditis following 1 high steroid dose.

[bournville]

hello I experienced pericarditis about 17 years ago following a cold. I had one mild relapse about 6 months later which is when I was diagnosed with pericarditis by GP . Since then nothing until now.

2 days ago I was prescribed a high dose of prednisone steroids (60mg per day) for an unrelated ear condition (noise induced tinnitus). I managed one day of the steroids which seemed to trigger the familiar but milder pericarditis symptoms - dull spasms left breast area which settled into dull pain discomfort that can be semi controlled by sitting up. Lying down flat or lying on left hand side seems to aggravate it. I feel wiped out too, no energy which i remember from first time. I called current GP and stopped the steroids. GP told me if I was concerned I could go to A&E for an ecg to help determine the problem.

I am slightly reluctant to attend A&E due to the current drs strike and understand rest is the biggest help with pericarditis?. Is it worth me going to be diagnosed with pericarditis then sent home? I would be keen to try the medication colchicine but can’t really risk taking ibuprofen (a known cause of tinnitus) are there alternatives to ibuprofen and how important are they in treatment?

I’m on the start of day 3 of symptoms not taking any medication so, any advice greatly appreciated thanks

[Kristin1812 Heart Star]

In your shoes, I would call my GP or call 111, when they will make a judgement for you about whether you should take action..