What can be a possible symptom of pericarditis?

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, which is the fibrous sac surrounding the heart. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is chest pain, which typically arises from the irritation of the pericardial layers. This pain often worsens when lying down or taking deep breaths and may improve when sitting up or leaning forward.

Shortness of breath can also occur in cases of pericarditis, particularly if the inflammation leads to fluid accumulation in the pericardial space, a condition known as pericardial effusion. This fluid can restrict the heart's movement and affect its ability to pump effectively, leading to pulmonary congestion and resulting in feelings of breathlessness.

Therefore, the presence of both shortness of breath and chest pain highlights the complex nature of pericarditis symptoms, showcasing how inflammation can affect various bodily functions and systems. This multifaceted symptomatology makes option C a comprehensive choice in identifying potential symptoms of pericarditis.