In the context of pericarditis, what is the purpose of NSAIDs?

In pericarditis, the primary purpose of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) is to reduce inflammation. Pericarditis is characterized by inflammation of the pericardium, which can lead to symptoms such as chest pain and discomfort. NSAIDs function by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for mediating inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing inflammation in the pericardium, NSAIDs can help alleviate the symptoms associated with pericarditis, such as pain and discomfort during the respiratory cycle.

While NSAIDs may also indirectly relieve chest pain associated with the inflammation, their main mechanism is to address the underlying inflammatory process. Additionally, they do not serve to prevent infection or specifically improve blood flow in the context of this condition. Understanding the role of NSAIDs in managing pericarditis emphasizes the importance of targeting inflammation to improve patient outcomes.