pericardial effusion

The pericardium (aka pericardial sac) is a double-layered membrane that surrounds the heart. Pericardial effusion refers to a condition when too much fluid accumulates in the pericardium such that the heart cannot function properly. The symptoms associated with pericardial effusion include shortness of breath, painful breathing, chest pain, dizziness, rapid heart rate. If not properly treated, pericardial effusion can result complete heart failure.