Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Cardiac diseases in AIDS history and symptoms
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Pericarditis is the most common clinical manifestation of cardiovascular disease in patients with AIDS. However, majority of the cases of pericardial effusion are asymptomatic and are found incidentally on a chest x-ray showing increased cardiac silhouette. Symptoms vary with the type of cardiac disease in AIDS.
History
History
History should include details of previous opportunistic infections, risk factors for atherosclerosis, current or past antiretroviral therapy.
Symptoms
Symptoms
Pericarditis
- Fever
- Pleuritic chest pain
- Cough (either dry or productive)
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Breathlessness
Cardiomyopathy
- Breathlessness (exertional or at rest)
- Swelling of lower limbs
- Fatigue and fainting
- Irregular heart beat
Infective Endocarditis
Coronary Artery Disease
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina) is the most common symptom.
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue with activity (exertion).
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Raviteja Guddeti, M.B.B.S. [2]