Symptom 7. Cough: An Irritating Indicator
In the orchestra of symptoms that could potentially indicate pericarditis, a cough might seem like a minor player. But in fact, a persistent, irritating cough can play a significant role in diagnosing this condition.
Pericarditis can trigger a dry, persistent cough—one that doesn’t respond to cough drops or over-the-counter cough syrups. This is because the inflammation associated with pericarditis can irritate the lungs, which in turn leads to coughing.
However, a cough can be a common symptom for many ailments, which is why it often goes unnoticed as a potential sign of something more serious like pericarditis. But here’s where the puzzle pieces start to fit together: If this cough is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other symptoms mentioned here, it’s a strong signal that pericarditis might be at play.
And while it’s true that a cough can be attributed to a wide array of conditions—from the common cold to more severe lung diseases—what sets a pericarditis-related cough apart is its persistence and resistance to usual treatments.
In essence, a persistent, unexplained cough should not be taken lightly. If you’ve been dealing with a nagging cough that just won’t quit, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms of pericarditis, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Addressing this symptom sooner rather than later can pave the way to a quicker diagnosis and a more targeted treatment plan. (7)
