Symptom 9. Feeling Unwell: The General Malaise
You know the feeling – that inexplicable sensation of just not feeling “right”. This general sense of being unwell, also known as malaise, is another symptom that can be associated with pericarditis. It’s a non-specific symptom, which means it doesn’t point to any particular disease but is a common reaction of the body to various forms of illness.
In the context of pericarditis, this general malaise could manifest as a combination of fatigue, weakness, or a feeling of discomfort. You might not be able to put your finger on what exactly is wrong, but you know something is off.
It’s important to note that, like other symptoms mentioned here, malaise is not unique to pericarditis. Many health issues can make you feel generally unwell. However, when this feeling is coupled with other symptoms like chest pain or a persistent cough, it may indicate an underlying condition such as pericarditis.
Never ignore your body’s signals, even if they seem vague or undefined. If you have a sustained feeling of being unwell, especially if it comes with other signs related to pericarditis, it’s essential to reach out to your healthcare provider. (9)
