Symptom 3. Shortness of Breath: The Struggle for Air
Taking a breath should be as easy as, well, breathing. But for those with pericarditis, it can feel like running a marathon. Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is another common symptom of pericarditis, and it often intensifies when lying down.
This is because the inflamed pericardium can interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. The body, in its infinite wisdom, tries to compensate by increasing your breathing rate to get more oxygen.
If you find yourself fighting for air, particularly when lying down, don’t ignore it. This isn’t a battle you have to face alone, and your healthcare provider can be your ally. Whether it’s pericarditis or another issue, addressing it sooner rather than later could make a world of difference in your treatment plan and quality of life. (3)
