Cardiac tamponade
Alternative names:
pericardial tamponade; tamponade
Treatment:
Cardiac tamponade is an emergency condition that requires hospitalization. Treatment is aimed at saving the patient's life, improving heart function, and treating of the tamponade.
Analgesics such as morphine, and diuretics such as furosemide (see furosemide - oral), may stabilize the condition until the fluid can be removed.
Bedrest with the head slightly elevated minimizes the workload on the heart and may be recommended until the condition is stable.
Oxygen reduces the workload on the heart by decreasing tissue demands for blood flow.
The cause of the tamponade must be identified and treated. Treatment of the cause may include medications such as antibiotics, and surgical repair of injury.
Removal of excess fluid from the sac (pericardiocentesis) may relieve symptoms and can be life-saving.
Cutting and/or removal of part of the pericardium (surgical pericardiectomy) may be required if scarring is a cause of tamponade.
Expectations (prognosis):
Tamponade is life threatening if untreated. The outcome is often good if the condition is treated promptly, but tamponade may recur.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms develop. Cardiac tamponade is an emergency condition requiring immediate attention!
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