Country music star Carly Pearce has offered a candid account of her ongoing battle with a serious heart condition, pericarditis, shedding light on the physical and emotional challenges she has faced over the past five years. The 35-year-old singer discussed her experience during an appearance on Today earlier this year, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the condition she first publicly disclosed in 2024.
Pericarditis, the inflammation of the tissue surrounding the heart, can cause severe chest pain and shortness of breath. Pearce revealed that she had been contending with recurrent flare-ups of the condition since 2020, often experiencing debilitating chest pain that was only alleviated when she bent forward. “When you lay back, it gets way worse because that wall is kind of inflamed around your heart,” she explained, highlighting the persistent discomfort she has endured.
In addition to the chest pain, Pearce described intense shortness of breath, comparing it to “sucking through a straw,” a vivid illustration of how the condition affected her daily life. Despite the severity of her symptoms, she emphasised that she has been managing her health with care and determination. “I’m doing better,” she told viewers. “I’m healthy. I’m trying to find my new normal.”
Pearce also noted that heart disease runs in her family. Her father survived a widowmaker heart attack when she was just 19, an experience that has shaped her awareness of heart health and provided a source of guidance and support as she navigates her own medical challenges. Her openness about her condition underscores a combination of vulnerability and resilience, demonstrating her commitment to living a full personal and professional life while managing a chronic illness.
Throughout her career, Pearce has continued to perform, record and engage with fans, proving that chronic health issues need not define or limit one’s ambitions. By sharing her story, she has also helped raise awareness about pericarditis and heart health, particularly the importance of recognising symptoms early and seeking timely medical care.
Key details regarding Carly Pearce’s health journey are summarised below:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Condition | Pericarditis (inflammation of heart tissue) |
| Duration | Approximately 5 years (since 2020) |
| Symptoms | Severe chest pain (relieved by leaning forward), shortness of breath |
| Public Disclosure | 2024 |
| Family History | Father survived widowmaker heart attack at age 19 |
| Current Status | Managing condition, reports feeling healthy and finding “new normal” |
| Interview | Discussed condition on Today in 2025 |
Carly Pearce’s transparency about her ongoing heart condition has resonated with fans and health advocates alike, reflecting her determination, resilience and ability to continue pursuing her career while prioritising her well-being.