Pleurisy Or Pleuritis

General Information on Pleurisy Or Pleuritis

Pleurisy is a condition characterized by irritation and inflammation of the pleura. The pleura is a thin membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity. The condition is characterized by two different types. Pleural effusion, or wet pleurisy, is the development of fluid within the two-layered membrane of the pleura. If there is no fluid present, but inflammation is detected, the condition is known as dry pleurisy. Pleurisy is not a disease, but a symptomatic result of another underlying condition, such as infection, injury, blood clot, or disease.

Symptoms of Pleurisy Or Pleuritis

The most common symptoms of pleurisy is chest pain that worsens with breathing The pain may be located at the site of inflammation or in the lower chest, and may be dull and vague or extremely severe. Other symptoms include:

Discomfort from movement
Rapid or shallow breathing
Fever (occasionally)

Treatments For Pleurisy Or Pleuritis

Your doctor will need to perform a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms. Additional medical test may include chest x-rays, blood studies, and pleural fluid studies in order to confirm diagnosis. Treatment is primarily intended to address the underlying cause. Other treatment methods may be applied in order to ease symptoms. In the instance of wet pleurisy, excessive fluid build-up in the pleura may need to be drained. Fluid removal is usually done by inserting a needle into the pleura in order to draw the fluid out. If you are experiencing symptoms of pleurisy, contact your doctor for further diagnosis.

Personal Experience

Pleurisy Or Pleuritis - personal experiences