Pericardial Tamponade

Pericardial tamponade is the buildup of fluid in the membrane that surrounds the heart, the pericardium, in an amount large enough to make it hard for the heart to fill and pump normally. It is considered a situation that requires urgent medical attention.

Common symptoms: difficulty breathing, a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the chest, fatigue, dizziness, and, at times, low blood pressure.

When to see a doctor? The sudden onset of shortness of breath or severe chest discomfort requires immediate attention, without postponing the visit.

Which specialist treats it? The cardiologist evaluates the heart in adults and the pediatric cardiologist in childhood, while the cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon or the general surgeon steps in depending on the case. With symptoms like these, the safest course is to seek evaluation without delay.