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Diagnosis and Symptoms

I was initially diagnosed with pericarditis in February 2023. My journey with this condition took a turn in January 2024 with a second bout, and I am currently navigating my third flare-up.

On February 12, 2023, the day started like any other. However, for weeks I had been experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations. As a wife, mother, and working professional, I chalked it up to stress or anxiety, even though I’d never had these issues before. That night, I ended up in the Emergency Room, where I was diagnosed with pericarditis and also learned I was COVID-19 positive. The months that followed were filled with confusion, pain, worry, and an unwavering determination to get my life back to normal.

Struggling with the Daily Impact of Recurrent Pericarditis

Living with recurrent pericarditis has changed my life profoundly. I’ve had to decline career opportunities and forego speaking engagements and conferences. Activities like running, weightlifting, and yoga are no longer feasible for me. It has affected my ability to handle daily tasks and care for my family. My children have even had to look after me at times, leaving me feeling like I’m in an alternate universe.

Treatment Journey

I’ve been prescribed a medicine that is usually used to treat gout and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for each of my flare-ups. These treatments have allowed me to resume some aspects of my life, but the condition inevitably returns. A significant challenge has been finding doctors who take my symptoms seriously. My first doctor claimed I’d be fine in two weeks—it’s been over 20 months since then. I’ve heard dismissive comments like “calm down” and “it’s no big deal.”

When I am treated for a flare up, my condition takes over my life. Frequent visits to the emergency room and doctor’s office, countless phone calls, and various tests are the norm. I’m left exhausted, often needing to sleep during the day, with restless nights. My role as a wife, mother, and professional feels out of reach. Today, I continue to face challenges and am searching for a new sense of purpose and community.

Emotional Impact

Talking about my diagnosis is difficult. The physical pain and uncertainty took me to a dark place mentally and emotionally. But with the support of God, family, and friends, I found the strength to push through. Pericarditis has challenged me in ways I never imagined, as I often feel powerless over my symptoms during flare-ups.

My usual coping mechanisms, like running and exercising, aren’t an option now. Instead, I lean on my faith, reach out to family and friends, and allow myself to accept help.

Support and Community

I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from my family, friends, and professional network. They have gone above and beyond to help me and my family, and their generosity humbles me. I’ve also found valuable resources through organizations like the Pericarditis Alliance, which has provided guidance as I navigate this journey.

Advice and Insights

For others newly diagnosed with pericarditis, I encourage you not to suffer in silence and to seek help when you need it. Pericarditis can be incredibly painful and frightening, and it’s essential to advocate for yourself and ensure you’re taken seriously.

Hope and Future Outlook

As for my future with pericarditis, I remain uncertain but hopeful. I still dream that one day this condition will be a distant memory. If that doesn’t happen, I’ll continue facing it head-on with both sadness and strength, and I’ll keep laughing, smiling, and loving. Although my career and physical abilities have been impacted, my family motivates me every day.

I’m sharing my story not only for my own healing but also in the hope that it will resonate with someone else. Pericarditis may bring challenges, but hope is what keeps me going through the toughest days and nights. We all need hope—it’s what sustains me, and I hope it can bring comfort to others as well.