10 Causes of Heart Pain
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
Cause #2: Pericarditis
Pericarditis occurs when there is inflammation of the pericardium, which is the fibrous sac that surrounds the heart. Patients with pericarditis often experience chest pain, which may radiate to the back, neck, or shoulders. The pain is often worse when breathing deeply or lying down. Other associated symptoms include palpitations, weakness, fever, and shortness of breath.
An infection is one of the most common causes of acute pericarditis. Other potential causes include sequelae of a heart attack, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and trauma to the chest. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, electrocardiogram changes, and the presence of fluid surrounding the heart.
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