The human heart is a robust, relentless organ, circulating blood all over the body to sustain life. But like any organ, the heart itself can encounter problems — one of which is Hydro, or medically referred to as Hydropericardium, or in Urdu as اُب قلب.
We shall explain in this blog what Hydro is, its cause, symptoms, and cure easily and understandably.
What is Hydro (اُب قلب)?
Hydropericardium is the buildup of fluid in the pericardial sac — the thin, double-layered membrane that envelops and guards the heart. Under normal circumstances, this sac holds a little bit of lubricating fluid (approximately 15–50 ml) to minimize friction as the heart pumps.
In اُب قلب, this fluid accumulates abnormally, compressing the heart and possibly impairing its efficiency in pumping blood.
Causes of Hydropericardium (اُب قلب)
There are several reasons fluid may build up around the heart:
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Kidney failure
- Cancer (metastatic tumors)
- Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus)
- Trauma or injury to the chest
- Complications following heart surgery
- Certain medications or radiation therapy
In veterinary settings (such as in poultry), hydropericardium is also caused by viral infections, e.g., Hydropericardium Syndrome (HPS) in broiler chickens.
Signs of Hydro (اُب قلب)
Some people may have no symptoms at first, particularly if the fluid builds up slowly. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath (سانس لینے میں دشواری)
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fatigue or weakness
- Swelling in the abdomen or legs
- Rapid heartbeat (تیز دل کی دھڑکن)
In serious cases, it can cause cardiac tamponade — a life-threatening condition in which pressure from the fluid stops the heart from beating well.
Diagnosis of اُب قلب
- To diagnose hydropericardium, physicians can use:
- Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
- Chest X-ray
- CT or MRI scan
- Pericardiocentesis (fluid drainage for testing)
Treatment of Hydropericardium
The treatment varies with the cause and degree of the fluid accumulation.
Conservative treatments include:
- Diuretics (water tablets) – for controlling fluid retention
- Treatment of any underlying infection – antibiotics or antivirals
- Pericardiocentesis – draining the fluid through a needle
- Surgery – in chronic or recurrent cases (e.g., pericardial window or pericardiectomy)
Is Hydro (اُب قلب) life-threatening
It can — if not treated. Sudden or rapid fluid buildup can cause the heart to malfunction, which is dangerous and needs to be treated immediately. But when treated early, Hydro is curable, and patients can recover completely.
Prevention Tips
- Control chronic conditions such as kidney disease, hypertension, or autoimmune diseases
- Seek early treatment for chest infections or trauma
- Have regular check-ups, particularly after heart surgery or radiation treatment
Hydropericardium (اُب قلب) FAQs
Hydropericardium is the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, the membrane that surrounds the heart. In Urdu, it is called اُب قلب.
Yes. Pericardial effusion is the medical term for fluid around the heart, and Hydropericardium specifically refers to the buildup of serous (clear) fluid in that space.
Yes, especially if the fluid accumulates rapidly. It can lead to cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening condition where the heart is compressed and can’t pump blood properly.
Yes. If treated early and the underlying cause is managed, most patients recover fully. However, untreated or severe cases can become life-threatening.
Yes, especially in poultry. Hydropericardium Syndrome (HPS) is a viral disease seen in broiler chickens, caused by avian adenovirus.
Conclusion
Hydropericardium (اُب قلب) is a serious but not fatal condition if detected on time. In both humans and animals, knowledge about the symptoms and seeking medical help in time can avoid complications. If you or someone close to you is suffering from chest pain or abnormal tiredness, visit a physician — your heart is worth safeguarding.
