SD is a 36-year-old female with IGA nephropathy (kidney disease) who presented to urgent care with abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. The patient’s heart rate was 130 beats per minute, and the patient was uncomfortable. The patient was sent to the emergency room. Evaluation in the emergency room revealed a large amount of fluid around the heart, thought to be caused by underlying kidney disease. Dr. Sadiq was consulted and he performed the procedure, a pericardiocentesis with drainage of the extra fluid. The patient had significant improvement in pain and resolution of shortness of breath. The patient was treated by the medicine teams and discharged home four days later.
Take Home Message: If someone has underlying kidney disease, difficulty breathing, chest pain or abdominal pain, they may have extra fluid buildup in the lungs or around the heart. Seeking early evaluation can be life saving.
Please note this is meant for information/reference purposes only and not diagnosis. Evaluation and treatment by a licensed physician is always recommended.
