Which symptom is NOT associated with pericarditis?

Study for the HESI Gerontology Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart. It typically presents with several recognizable symptoms, including chest pain, which is often sharp and worsens with deep breaths or coughing. A low-grade fever can also occur as the body responds to the inflammation.

In pericarditis, a dry cough may be present due to irritation of the pleura and surrounding structures, making it part of the symptom profile. However, a wet cough is generally associated with conditions affecting the lungs, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, rather than pericarditis. The presence of a wet cough indicates the production of mucus or phlegm, which is not characteristic of pericarditis. Therefore, recognizing that a wet cough does not fit with the typical presentation of pericarditis is crucial in understanding the disorder's symptomatology.

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