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Arrhythmias
The heart rate and rhythm can be affected
by heart disease.
This abnormality in the heart rate and
rhythm causes the heart to beat inefficiently which can
result in inadequate blood flow (bottom) or even sudden
death.
Pericardial Disease
The pericardium is the
sac-like membrane that surrounds the heart. Disease can
cause fluid to accumulate between the pericardium and the
heart. This is referred to as pericardial effusion (bottom
right).
If severe, fluid
will compress the heart, restricting its movement. If present,
this fluid may need to be drained.
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Normal Heart
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Pericardial effusion
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