What Is Pericardial Effusion?Pericardial effusion is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the membranous sac surrounding the heart, called the pericardium. The excess fluid in the pericardium puts pressure on the heart, reducing its ability to pump blood and oxygenate the body. Minor fluid buildups are often asymptomatic – without perceived symptoms – and can be accommodated by the heart. More severe cases pose a serious health risk and require medical and sometimes surgical treatment. Show
What Are the Symptoms of Pericardial Effusion?Most persons with pericardial effusion tend to develop symptoms only after a large amount of fluid has accumulated around the heart. These symptoms include:
Symptoms of a more serious condition known as cardiac tamponade include shock and bluing lips and skin. Cardiac tamponade is life-threatening and calls for an emergency medical intervention. What Causes Pericardial Effusion?The pericardium is like a loose-fitting sleeve for your heart. It normally contains a small amount of fluid, about two to three tablespoons’ worth, which creates a helpful environment for cardiac muscle contractions. If, however, the pericardium becomes irritated or inflamed, it fills with additional fluid that presses in on the heart, hampering its operation. A small pericardial effusion may contain about a half cup of fluid; a large and dangerous one, four or more pints. The conditions that give rise to pericardial effusion are numerous and varied:
Physicians are not always successful in determining the reason for pericardial effusion. Such cases are described as idiopathic, meaning the condition is real but the cause is unknown. How is Pericardial Effusion Diagnosed?There are several steps your physician can take to diagnose pericardial effusion. These include:
If there is reason to suspect an underlying medical issue involving your heart, your physician may order:
How Is Pericardial Effusion Treated?Treatment for pericardial effusion is based on the cause and extent of fluid accumulation. When buildup is minimal, treatment emphasizes pain and swelling reduction. When buildup is extensive, hospitalization and surgery may be required. Pain ReliefThe following drugs have proven useful in treating pericardial effusion:
Surgical ProceduresThe riskiest complication of pericardial effusion is cardiac tamponade. Treating this condition, which is life-threatening, typically requires hospitalization and surgery:
What are the symptoms of fluid around the heart?Symptoms. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (dyspnea). Discomfort when breathing while lying down.. Chest pain, usually behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest.. Chest fullness.. Lightheadedness or feeling faint.. Swelling in the abdomen or legs.. How do you get rid of fluid around the heart?Pericardiocentesis is a procedure done to remove fluid that has built up in the sac around the heart (pericardium). It's done using a needle and small catheter to drain excess fluid. A fibrous sac known as the pericardium surrounds the heart.
What does pericarditis pain feel like?Chest pain is the most common symptom of pericarditis. It usually feels sharp or stabbing. However, some people have dull, achy or pressure-like chest pain. Pericarditis pain usually occurs behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest.
Can fluid around the heart go away on its own?If there is only a small amount of extra fluid in your pericardium, you may not need treatment. The extra fluid may go away on its own. Treatment depends on the cause of the extra fluid, the amount of fluid, and your symptoms.
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