Can pericardial disease be prevented?
Cases can be prevented, managing underlying conditions like autoimmune diseases and infections can reduce the risk.
What treatments are available for pericardial disease?
A cardiac surgeon treats pericardial diseases and treatment may include medications, drainage of fluid, pericardiectomy, or emergency procedures like pericardiocentesis.
What are the symptoms of pericardial disease?
Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, and rapid heartbeat.
How is pericardial disease diagnosed?
Through physical examination, echocardiogram, ECG, chest X-ray, and sometimes CT or MRI.
What causes pericardial disease?
Causes include infections, autoimmune disorders, trauma, cancer, uremia, and radiation therapy.
How are septal defects diagnosed?
Septal defects are diagnosed using echocardiograms, ECGs, chest X-rays, and sometimes cardiac MRI or CT scans.
What are the symptoms of a septal defect?
Symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, frequent infections, poor growth, and heart murmurs.
Can septal defects close on their own?
Small ASDs and VSDs often close on their own as a child grows, but larger defects may require medical intervention.
What is the difference between ASD and VSD?
It refers to a hole in the wall between the two atria, while VSD refers to a hole in the wall between the two ventricles of the heart.
How can arrhythmias be prevented?
Preventive measures include managing underlying conditions (such as CAD or heart failure), maintaining proper electrolyte balance, and avoiding substances that can trigger arrhythmias, like excessive alcohol or stimulants.
