new diagnosis: Pericarditis Questions

How long does this pain/discomfort last?  i am on Naproxen 375 x 2 times a day,  but really i dont feel any relief.  Also does anyone else have bad pain when they are driving?  I dont know if its the way i sit, or the bouncing of the truck,  but it seems to create alot of pain under my sternum.....

I am going to the Dr. again today, and wondering what else they could try for pain control,  when i did get a couple of days with out the pain, my energy was almost back to normal, otherwise i am exhausted all the time, and just want to rest!  The Cardio says its likely a virus and it will have to run its course.....

Does anyone else get the pressure that seems to push up on the throat/esophagus?  it seems to feel better when i am eating something or sucking on a candy...... 

Glad to have such a good forum, and would love to hear from anyone for encouragement!

thanks

Welcome to HealingWell.  I am so glad to see Karen has been online to welcome you - she is a gem. 

I just returned home from a lovely vacation.

Pericarditis - not fun but usually responds well to medications.  It is good to know you are seeing your Dr. today.

Medications to reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with pericarditis are often prescribed, including:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers. Most pain associated with pericarditis responds well to treatment with pain relievers available without a prescription, such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin others).
• Narcotic pain relievers. If your pain is severe, you might need stronger pain medications, such as morphine, for a short time.
• Colchicine (Colcrys). This drug, which reduces inflammation in the body, may be prescribed for pericarditis or as a treatment for recurrent symptoms. Colchicine can reduce the length of pericarditis symptoms and decrease the risk that the condition will recur. However, the drug is not safe for people with certain pre-existing health problems, such as liver or kidney disease, and for those taking certain medications. Your doctor will carefully check your health history before prescribing colchicine.
• Corticosteroids. If you don't respond to pain relievers or colchicine or if you have recurrent symptoms of pericarditis, your doctor may prescribe a steroid medication, such as prednisone.

Acute episodes of pericarditis typically last from one to three weeks, but future episodes can occur. Some people with pericarditis have a recurrence within months of the original episode.

The pain of acute pericarditis may travel into your left shoulder and neck. It often intensifies when you lie down or inhale deeply. Coughing, taking a deep breath or swallowing food also may make the pain worse. Sitting up and leaning forward can often ease the pain.

Make a list of your questions to take with you to your physician's visit - it always helps me to remember what I want to talk about. 

I will be looking for your update after your visit to the Drs. Again welcome aboard.

Kindly,

Kitt

looking forward to hearing some ideas, or share your experience,  thanks

elle