Pericardial Effusion

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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Pericardial effusion is a buildup of fluid in the pericardium. The pericardium is a 2-layer sac that surrounds the heart. The sac normally contains a small amount of clear fluid between its layers. This allows the heart to move smoothly against other organs in the chest as it beats. The fluid buildup puts pressure on your heart. This makes it difficult for your heart to pump. Fluid may collect slowly or quickly.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
  • Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest
  • You may also have any of the following:
    • Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
    • Shortness of breath
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat
• You have sudden chest pain.
• You have sudden trouble breathing.

Return to the emergency department if:

• You feel lightheaded or faint.
• You have swelling in your legs or feet.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Arcalyst
• rilonacept

Call your doctor or cardiologist if:

• You have a fever.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• Antibiotics help treat an infection caused by bacteria.
• Steroids help decrease swelling.
• NSAIDs help decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Follow up with your doctor or cardiologist as directed:

You will need to return for more tests to see if the fluid around your heart has come back. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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