Dressler's syndrome is a post-MI pericarditis that develops weeks to several months after MI or open heart surgery . Dressler's syndrome may have repeated episodes of symptoms. It may also follow open heart surgery, stab wounds to the heart, or blunt chest trauma.
Pain occurs when the inflamed pericardium rubs on the heart.
Post-MI pericarditis occurs in approximately 4 out of 100,000 people. Risks include previous heart attack, open heart surgery, or chest trauma. CBC shows increased WBC . The goals of treatment are to improve heart function and reduce symptoms. Other medications may include analgesics to relieve pain and diuretics to remove excess fluid.