Dressler syndrome is a rare complication that can occur after a heart attack, heart surgery, or other procedures involving the heart. It is an autoimmune reaction, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
What triggers this immune response?
The exact cause is unknown, but experts believe it is triggered by the body's response to the injury or inflammation in the heart. The immune system may react to the damaged heart tissue or the surgical procedures, leading to the development of Dressler syndrome.
Symptoms of Dressler Syndrome
The symptoms of Dressler syndrome usually appear a few days to several weeks after the initial heart event. They include:
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Pericarditis (inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart)
- Pleuritis (inflammation of the lining of the lungs)
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors diagnose Dressler syndrome based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. They may also use imaging tests, such as an echocardiogram or chest X-ray, to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for Dressler syndrome typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and pain, such as:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroids
In some cases, doctors may recommend surgery to remove the inflamed tissue.
Prevention
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Dressler syndrome, doctors can take steps to minimize the risk, such as:
- Administering antibiotics to prevent infection after heart surgery
- Using anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation
Dressler syndrome is a serious condition, but with prompt diagnosis and treatment, most people recover fully.
