We have all had to deal with the annoying hiccup at least once in our life. And we tried all the grandmother’s remedies possible. From holding your breath to breathing into a bag to drinking a glass of water in small sips. They are usually sufficient. Or the hiccups go away on their own after a few minutes. In some cases, however, there seems to be nothing effective. It is on these occasions that we must be careful.
This symptom that we often underestimate could be the alarm bell of a heart problem. That is, pericarditis, the inflammation of the membranes that protect the heart. But we mustn’t be scared. We can easily solve the problem if we recognize it in time and if we go to the doctor right away.
This symptom that we often underestimate could be the alarm bell of a heart problem
Pericarditis is inflammation of the tissue that surrounds the heart and in some cases causes fluid to leak. There are many factors that can cause it. Among the most common are viral or bacterial infections, the flu and some widespread gastro-intestinal diseases.
Fortunately it is a perfectly treatable pathology and from which it can be cured. The important thing is to recognize the symptoms and be prompt in the diagnosis. Frequent and recurrent hiccups are a first wake-up call. Other symptoms are chest pain, muscle weakness and persistent cough. Cough that occurs especially if we put ourselves in the supine position.
If the origin of the pericarditis is viral or bacterial, another possible symptom is fever.
There are two types of pericarditis. The acute one is the most common. It almost always comes suddenly and, fortunately, has a fairly short duration. Chronic pericarditis occurs more slowly and requires more specific and prolonged treatment over time.
This condition usually affects people between the ages of 20 and 50. And more men than women.
How to treat pericarditis
Even if it affects a delicate organ such as the heart, pericarditis is fatal only in very few cases. In milder forms, the disease disappears after a rest period and a treatment based on common anti-inflammatories.
If, on the other hand, pericarditis arises as a result of a bacterial infection, it will be treated with antibiotics.
Only in the most severe cases of chronic pericarditis is it resorted to drainage of the fluid or surgical removal of damaged tissue.
Deepening
Here is the fish that will get us back in shape and protect the heart in September