The pericardium forms a sack in which the heart resides. When an excess of fluid accumulates within this sack, it can affect the ability of the heart to function. By increasing pressure, it can prevent blood from returning fast enough to fill the heart. The blood pressure can drop and occasionally death can occur.
Causes of Cardiac Tamponade
Trauma is a common cause of cardiac tamponade. Here, bleeding occurs with the pericardial sack. Post operative bleeding may also occur particularly after surgical procedures on the coronary arteries. Tuberculosis, tumors, and acute viral infections can all lead to accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space. If enough fluid accumulates, cardiac tamponade may occur.
Signs and Symptoms of Cardiac Tamponade
Cardiac tamponade is often the result of trauma to the chest. Accordingly, there are often injuries to the chest wall, fractured ribs and difficulty breathing. Chest pain is common. If cardiac function is limited sufficiently faintness or unconsciousness may occur. Pain may radiate to the upper abdomen, neck, shoulder or back.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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