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Pericardial diseases

These are diseases of the sac that encases the heart (pericardium). Pericardial disorders include inflammation (pericarditis), fluid accumulation (pericardial effusion) and stiffness (constrictive pericarditis). These can occur alone or together. The causes of pericardial disease vary, as do the problems they may lead to. For instance, pericarditis can occur after a heart attack and, as a result, lead to pericardial effusion or chest pain.

Symptoms

People who slowly develop valvular heart disease may not notice any symptoms because the heart is given time to adjust. However, valve disease that develops suddenly can cause a variety of symptoms including palpitations, chest pain and edema (swelling) in the ankles, feet or abdomen. Weakness, dizziness and rapid weight gain may also occur. The severity of a patient’s symptoms does not always reflect the severity of their condition. Patients with severe valvular heart disease may have no symptoms and those with severe symptoms only have a minor valve problem that does not require treatment. As a general rule, patients experiencing any new symptoms, or symptoms that are more frequent or severe, should contact a physician.

Treatment

Treatment for valvular heart disease depends on the type and severity of the diagnosis. People with minor valve problems may not require treatment. Those with more serious disorders can often be treated successfully with medications such as the following: