I also have had this a couple of times. Once while in the ER the doc asked if I had been tested for Lupus. I hadn't and was tested.it came back negative. However, if you aren't having a flare up (I guess that]s what you call it ) you won't test positive, I believe. Th at is something you might want to check out. You talk about the pain you have in your body and say it is hard to walk. I am experiencing terrible pain in my calves. It is driving me nuts. I don't know if you are even going to read this because it has been awhile since you last wrote on here. I appreciate what ever you can tell me. Thank you in advance
I first suffered from pericarditis a few years ago and ended up in the ICU for a while. I'm now recovering from it again. I too suffer the symptoms you discribed before it sets in completely. My body hurts and I feel very, very tried. I also get strange lesions on my hands and forearms from time to time and this usually happens before I get somekind of wierd illness (like pain in my gums etc.). I believe that those of us that suffer from pericarditis are often mis-diagnosed. I'm going through test at the moment to see if this is in fact Lupus. It is very difficult to diagnose Lupus and it takes a while. I would say to you, keep pushing forward. This seems to be an autoimmune disease that can only really be diagnosed during flare-ups. Like you I'm looking for answers that the doctors at the moment cannot give.
I too have suffered from pericarditis and ended in the ICU. The doctors always end up scratching their heads because all the test show I have no blockage whatsoever. They finally diagnose me with pericarditis, but can't tell me why. You see, I believe pericarditis is a symptom of something else. Often those of us that suffer from this are mis-diagnosed. Like all of you, I've searched for answers and believe it is a symptom of an autoimmune disease, probably Lupus. Lupus is extremely difficult to diagnose. Until you get a diagnoses, they will tell you that it's just pericarditis and caused by a virus of some sort. It's rare to find a doctor that will put everything together into a big picture and go from there. Good luck to all of you and you are not alone.
I suffer from pericarditis as well. I tend to get it more often during winter months and flu season, so I don't discount the belief it is caused by a virus. Viruses like to attack weaker areas, so once you've had it you're more vulnerable every time a virus gets into your system. Don't take steroids or you will likely suffer worse in the future. High doses of aspirin or NSAIDs. Since it is inflammation that causes the fluids, pain and damage; try adopting a diet that avoids foods that cause inflammation, red meats etc. Also avoid salt while you have it and drink diuretics like tea, honey, apple cider vinegar and lots of water. I've suffered with it for 30 years, it's not a fun thing to manage. Good luck, I hope this helps ;-)
You need to avoid exercise with this condition.
Sue
Thank you
Sue