There is normally a small amount of fluid around the heart (small pericardial effusion). This is produced by the sac around the heart and is an important part of normal heart functioning. Excess fluid around the heart is known as a pericardial effusion. But where does this excess fluid come from? Often, when the heart experiences inflammation (known as pericarditis) extra fluid releases and collects within the sac. It is also possible for blood to fill the sac during or after trauma, surgery, or complications of other heart procedures. Blood around the heart is known as hemopericardium. The fluid around the heart is usually continually produced and drained, so the level stays constant. Sometimes in patients with heart failure, high pressures within the heart cause the fluid not to drain properly. The body, however, continues to produce pericardial fluid, leading to excess fluid around the heart (chylous pericardial effusion).
Clogged arteries greatly increase the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and even death. Because of these dangers, it is important to be aware, no matter how old you are, of the causes of artery plaque and treatment strategies to prevent serious consequences.
Plaque that accumulates on the inner walls of your arteries is made from various substances that circulate in your blood. These include calcium, fat, cholesterol, cellular waste, and fibrin, a material involved in blood clotting. In response to plaque buildup, cells in your artery walls multiply and secrete additional substances that can worsen the state of clogged arteries.