A recent study found that among people with lupus who develop pericarditis — a type of heart inflammation — 1 in 5 will have a recurrence, meaning it comes back. Researchers identified three key risk factors: younger age, active lupus, and the use of prednisone, a common steroid.

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac around the heart. It can cause symptoms like sharp or dull chest pain, shortness of breath, and a rapid heartbeat.

The study followed 590 people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who’d had at least one episode of pericarditis. Over 6.7 years, 20.3 percent had one recurrence — and nearly half of those had multiple recurrences.

Risk factors for recurrence included:

• Taking prednisone (people taking more than 20 milligrams of prednisone per day had nearly double the risk compared to those not taking steroids)
• Being under 40 at the time of the first episode
• Having active lupus

Additionally, recurrence was most likely within the first year of the initial episode.

Talk to Your Doctor About Heart Symptoms

Around 20 percent of people with SLE develop pericarditis, which can range from mild to severe. Some cases resolve on their own, while others require treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence​. Because pericarditis can cause chest pain and shortness of breath — symptoms that overlap with serious heart conditions — it’s important to pay attention to your heart health.

If you have lupus, talk to your doctor about heart health. And if you ever experience new or severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart attack symptoms, seek medical care right away.

Learn about five signs of lupus complications, including fluttering heartbeat, kidney problems, and more.

Find Support From Others Who Understand

MyLupusTeam is a social network for people living with lupus. Members share experiences, ask questions, and offer support.

Have you had pericarditis with lupus? What helped you manage it? Share your experience in the comments below, start a conversation on your Activities page, or connect with like-minded members in Groups.