Symptom 8. Fever: A Burning Signal
Fevers can be disconcerting, not to mention uncomfortable. We often associate fevers with infections, such as the flu or other illnesses, but they can also be a sign of pericarditis. When your body is under attack, be it from a virus, bacteria, or an inflammation like pericarditis, one of its primary responses is to raise its core temperature to help fight off the invader.
In the context of pericarditis, a fever isn’t just a symptom; it’s your body’s SOS signal, an indication that something is amiss and needs attention. The inflammation of the pericardium can trigger this response, leading to an elevated body temperature or fever.
The connection between fever and pericarditis may not be immediately obvious, especially if the fever isn’t high. But when you pair a low-grade fever with symptoms like chest pain or fatigue, the puzzle starts to come together, pointing towards pericarditis as a potential cause.
Remember, not all fevers are caused by pericarditis, and not all cases of pericarditis will present with a fever. However, if you have a persistent fever that can’t be explained by common conditions like a cold or the flu, and it’s paired with other symptoms mentioned in this list, pericarditis could be the culprit. (8)
