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Cardiac tamponade

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Cardiac tamponade is a condition caused by too much fluid in the space between the heart and the sac that surrounds it, called the pericardium. This fluid collection can put weight and pressure on the heart, which means that it cannot expand properly and so it does not fill with normal amounts of blood. If the heart can't pump enough blood, it can lead to heart failure.

Cardiac tamponade is an emergency condition.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.