AEMCA Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common symptom of pericarditis?

1. Gradual onset of dull pain

2. Sudden onset of sharp chest pain

3. Persistent cough with exertion

4. Swelling of the ankles

The correct answer is: Sudden onset of sharp chest pain

The symptom of sudden onset of sharp chest pain is commonly associated with pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the pericardium, the membrane surrounding the heart. This sharp pain often worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or when lying flat, which distinguishes it from other types of chest pain. In many cases, the pain from pericarditis can be acute and may arise suddenly, sometimes following a viral infection. Patients often describe it as a sharp, stabbing pain that may radiate to the shoulder or neck. This symptom can be markedly different from dull pain, which can occur in other conditions affecting the cardiovascular system. The other symptoms listed, such as gradual onset of dull pain, persistent cough with exertion, and swelling of the ankles, are less typical for pericarditis. While they can indicate other medical conditions, they do not align with the recognizable presentation of pericarditis where sharp chest pain is a hallmark symptom.