Uremic Pericarditis Treatment in India

Aadya Garcia, a 42-year-old single mother...

Aadya Garcia, a 42-year-old single mother and elementary school teacher, had been managing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with dialysis for three years. She began experiencing sharp, persistent chest pain that worsened when lying down, accompanied by shortness of breath and a low-grade fever. Her dialysis nurse noted a faint pericardial rub. A cardiology consult and echocardiogram confirmed a significant pericardial effusion with early signs of tamponade, secondary to uremic pericarditis. Her cardiac surgeon, Dr. Evans, explained that while intensified dialysis was the first step, the fluid around her heart was dangerous and not resolving. He recommended a pericardial window procedure, a minimally invasive surgery to drain the fluid and prevent its return. Terrified of surgery but more afraid of leaving her two children motherless, Aadya agreed. The procedure was successful, immediately relieving the crushing chest pain. Her recovery in the cardiac ICU was closely monitored, and she was back home within a week. Emotionally, the experience was a profound scare. Before the procedure, she felt trapped by her failing body and consumed by anxiety. Afterwards, while still facing the challenges of ESRD, she felt a tangible second chance. The relief from the pain allowed her to reconnect with her children without the constant fear of a cardiac emergency, renewing her focus on managing her health and cherishing her time with her family.