Pericardial effusion

Description

The buildup of too much fluid in the sac around the heart.

Overview

Pericardial effusion is the buildup of extra fluid in the sac around the heart. This can put pressure on the heart. Without treatment, the condition may lead to heart failure or death. Causes include chest injury, heart attack damage, some cancers, radiation therapy near the heart, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney failure and thyroid disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include shortness of breath or trouble breathing. Chest pain can happen, usually behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest. A person also may have discomfort when breathing while lying down.

Treatments

Treatments include medicines and draining the fluid with a needle. Sometimes open-heart surgery is needed.