raised jugular venous pressure

Last reviewed 01/2018

Causes of a raised JVP may be classified into those due to:

• increased right ventricular filling pressure
• obstruction of blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle
• superior vena caval obstruction
• positive intrathoracic pressure

The JVP usually drops on inspiration along with intrathoracic pressure. The reverse pattern, called Kussmaul's sign, may be seen.