What is Pleurisy?
Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammation of the pleura—the thin membranes lining the lungs and chest wall. This inflammation causes sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing.
Causes?
What causes Pleurisy?
Common causes of pleurisy include:
- Viral or bacterial infections (such as pneumonia or tuberculosis)
- Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lungs)
- Autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Chest injuries or trauma
- Lung cancer or other cancers spreading to the pleura
- Certain medications and inflammatory conditions
Symptoms?
What are the symptoms of Pleurisy?
- Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths, coughing, or sneezing
- Shortness of breath due to pain
- Dry cough
- Fever and chills if infection is present
- Sometimes pleural friction rub heard on auscultation
Diagnosis?
How is Pleurisy diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Medical history and physical exam, especially listening for pleural friction rub
- Chest X-ray or CT scan to identify underlying lung conditions
- Ultrasound if fluid around lungs (pleural effusion) is suspected
- Blood tests to detect infection or autoimmune markers
- Thoracentesis (removal of pleural fluid) for analysis in some cases
Treatment?
How is Pleurisy treated?
- Treat underlying cause such as infection or autoimmune disease
- Pain relief with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) or acetaminophen
- Corticosteroids if inflammation is severe or autoimmune-related
- Antibiotics if bacterial infection is diagnosed
- Rest and avoiding activities that worsen pain
Prognosis?
What is the outlook for someone with Pleurisy?
With proper treatment, most cases improve without complications. Untreated pleurisy can lead to pleural effusion or chronic pain.
Prevention?
Can Pleurisy be prevented?
- Prompt treatment of respiratory infections
- Avoiding chest injuries
- Managing chronic diseases effectively
- Vaccinations to prevent infections like pneumonia and influenza
Support and Management?
How can individuals manage Pleurisy?
- Take prescribed medications regularly
- Use pain management strategies
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity during recovery
- Follow up with healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or persist