Post-Myocardial Infarction Pericarditis

Pericarditis after a heart attack is an inflammation of the pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart, that can appear in the days or weeks following a heart attack. When it arises late, it is also known as Dressler syndrome.

Common symptoms: chest pain that usually changes with breathing or posture, fever, general malaise, and, at times, difficulty breathing.

When to seek care? If after a heart attack chest pain, fever, or a feeling of pressure returns, it is important to report it to the medical team right away.

Which specialist treats it? The cardiologist follows up on the heart's recovery after the heart attack and manages this complication, with support from the cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon if needed. Since this happens at a delicate stage, the key is not to minimize the symptoms and to seek professional evaluation promptly.