When the pericardial layer sac is filled with excess of fluid it leads to pericardial effusion. Excess of fluid surrounding the heart may exert pressure interfering with the normal functions of the heart. The pericardium develops inflammation and injured. In some cases the gap between the layers are filled with blood due to accidental injury or after heart surgery. This can also cause effusion. If left untreated for long, pericardial effusion may lead to collapse of heart and even death.
Symptoms :
Generally people with pericardial effusion will not experience any symptom due to accumulation of excess of fluid. This does not happen suddenly and in most of the cases it is a gradual process. However some people may have signs like breathing difficulty, persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain (at the back of breastbone) and rapid heartbeat.
Mild pain on the chest may increase when the person inhales air and the pain may get better if he sits down. He may become extremely tired for no apparent reason. In case large volumes of fluid collect in the layer suddenly it can cause rapid heartbeat, difficulty in breathing and clammy skin. The person may suddenly lose consciousness.