noun, Physiology. 1. an instrument, often attached to an inflatable air-bladder cuff and used with a stethoscope, for measuring blood pressure in an artery. He who worships his sphygmomanometer as a thing apart and infallible will sooner or later come to grief.
Pericarditis is an inflammation of the tissue layers surrounding the heart. The chest pain of pericarditis is usually sharp and stabbing. It can radiate to the back, neck, or arm. The pain may worsen when taking a deep breath or lying flat and lessen when leaning forward.
Having a pain in your chest can be scary. It does not always mean that you are having a heart attack. There can be many other causes, including. Other heart problems, such as angina. Panic attacks. Digestive problems, such as heartburn or esophagus disorders. Sore muscles.