Constrictive pericarditis refers to a chronic inflammation (swelling) of the pericardium (thick covering of the heart) with the scarring, thickening and muscle tightening, resulting from conditions that cause inflammation to occur around the heart, such as a heart surgery, tuberculosis and radiation therapy to the chest. In some cases, it may also develop without any cause. Constrictive pericarditis is not much prevalent among children. Symptoms include difficulty in breathing that worsens over time, fatigue, tiredness, swollen abdomen, long-term swelling of the ankles and legs, and weakness. It can ideally be treated through antibiotics, anti-tuberculosis medications and other treatments. Affected individuals are usually prescribed Diuretics in small dosages to remove excess fluid from the body.
