Constrictive Pericarditis

What are the treatments for the condition?

Bed rest, salt restriction, and water pills may help relieve many symptoms. Medication may be needed for arrhythmias and to increase the pumping ability of the heart. Someone with severe symptoms may need to have the pericardium surgically removed.

The underlying cause of this condition may be treated, too. For example, if the cause is an infection, antibiotics may be needed.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Surgery can cause infection, bleeding, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia. All medications have possible side effects, including allergic reactions and stomach upset.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If necessary, heart medications can be used to help relieve symptoms of congestive heart failure. The liver is assessed for permanent damage. If the underlying heart muscle and liver are normal, surgery often allows people to return to normal activities.

How is the condition monitored?

Regular office visits may be needed to adjust medications and perform blood tests. In some cases, various imaging tests may be done to check the heart. Other monitoring depends on the underlying cause of this condition.