10 Pericarditis Symptoms
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
4. Cough
A cough occurs as a protective reflex that functions to clear the airways from irritants, microbes, foreign particles, and fluids. It is often repetitive and sudden. Divided into three phases (inhalation, forced exhalation, and release of air), a cough is generally accompanied by a distinctive sound.
When coughing is frequent, it may indicate disease. Through evolution, many bacteria and viruses benefit from coughing as this mechanism helps to spread the disease to other hosts. In viral pericarditis, a hacking cough may be observed. This cough varies with different positions. When the patient leans forward or sits up, the cough improves. A cough is also a common symptom seen among those with acute pericarditis.
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