What is pericarditis?

Pericarditis is a condition where the thin membrane that surrounds the heart becomes inflamed or swollen. A flare may occur as a single episode of pericarditis and resolve. When an episode, (also called "flare") happens again more than four weeks after the first resolves, it is known as recurrent pericarditis.

Learn about recurrent pericarditis
Grammy-winning country music singer/songwriter Carly Pearce

Carly Pearce, Grammy-winning country music singer/songwriter, living with recurrent pericarditis

Recurrent pericarditis: what you need to know

When a flare happens again more than 4 weeks after the first one goes away, it is known as recurrent pericarditis. The flares may be caused by the immune system attacking the pericardium. Recurrent pericarditis is a chronic condition that may last for years.

PERI-

Surrounding

+

CARD(IO)

Heart

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-ITIS

Inflammation

Any diagnosis of pericarditis can come with more questions than answers.

Explore educational content, tips for self-advocacy, and experiences from real patients with recurrent pericarditis.

Managing pericarditis: the options

From medications to lifestyle changes, managing pericarditis or recurrent pericarditis effectively is possible. Discover the latest treatment options and ways to manage the condition.

Pericarditis stories: real patients

Pericarditis often disrupts your daily life, but it doesn’t have to define it. Hear real stories from those who live with recurrent pericarditis, navigate challenges, and find ways to move forward.

Quote from Carly Pearce

"I didn’t want to believe this was serious—but in my heart, I knew it was."
Carly Pearce Country singer/songwriter, living with recurrent pericarditis
Carly Pearce holding an acoustic guitar while sitting on a couch.

Transforming care with the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association has facilitated a collaborative network of participating sites with healthcare professionals focused on recurrent pericarditis. Together, they are working to uncover gaps in the diagnosis and management of recurrent pericarditis, understand the patient pathway, and disseminate insights and key learnings nationally. Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals is a proud supporter of the American Heart Association’s Addressing Recurrent Pericarditis educational content.

American Heart Association logo

Last updated: 04/30/25
The content on this page has been written and approved by Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals.