Dr Ramji Mehrotra | Best Cardiovascular Surgeon & Heart Specialist Doctor in India

  Pericarditis, an inflammatory condition affecting the pericardium - the thin sac-like membrane surrounding the heart, can be a source of acute chest pain and discomfort. While it is often idiopathic or without a known cause, pericarditis can also be triggered by various factors. Understanding these underlying causes is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention of recurrence. Ø   Viral Infections: One of the primary causes of pericarditis is viral infections, particularly those caused by the coxsackievirus and echovirus. These viruses can directly invade the pericardium, triggering an inflammatory response. The immune system's reaction to the viral presence can lead to the release of inflammatory chemicals, causing the pericardium to become irritated and inflamed. Ø   Bacterial Infections: While less common, bacterial infections can also result in pericarditis. Bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis can in

  An echocardiogram, also known as a cardiac ultrasound, is a non-invasive medical test that uses high frequency sound waves to produce images of the heart. These images allow doctors to see the size, shape, and movement of the heart and its major blood vessels, as well as to assess the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Dr.Ramji Mehrotra says that there are several reasons why a person may need an echocardiogram. One common reason is to diagnose a heart condition or to monitor the progress of a pre-existing heart condition. For example, an echocardiogram can be used to detect abnormalities in the heart's structure, such as a hole in the heart or an enlarged heart. It can also be used to diagnose problems with the heart's valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage). Another reason for an echocardiogram is to assess the function of the heart. This can include measuring the heart's ejection fraction, which is a measure of how well the he