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A member asked:

How dangerous is a small pericardial effusion caused by pericarditis & how likely is that it will turn into tamponade & will ibuprofen help treat it?

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. Ira Friedlander answered

Specializes in Cardiac Electrophysiology

Not dangerous.: It is highly unlikely that an effusion from pericarditis will progress to tamponade because it is developing slowly. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory agents like ibuprofen are frequently helpful in treatment. Symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting should raise concern for progression and emergent reevaluation.

Answered 10/4/2019

1.7k views

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