Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, which are the two layers of tissue that surround the lungs and line the chest cavity. The pleura produce a fluid that helps to lubricate the lungs and chest wall, allowing them to move smoothly against each other during breathing.

Causes of Pleurisy

Pleurisy can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infections, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis
• Viral infections, such as the flu or COVID-19
• Bacterial infections, such as streptococcus or staphylococcus
• Fungal infections, such as aspergillosis or histoplasmosis
• Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Cancer, including lung cancer, breast cancer, or lymphoma
• Trauma to the chest, such as a rib fracture or puncture wound
• Pulmonary embolism or blood clots in the lungs
• Asbestos exposure or other occupational hazards

Symptoms of Pleurisy

The symptoms of pleurisy can vary depending on the underlying cause, but common symptoms include:

• Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing
• Sharp, stabbing pain in the chest or side
• Dull, aching pain in the chest or back
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Coughing or wheezing
• Fever or chills
• Fatigue or weakness
• Loss of appetite or weight loss

Diagnosis of Pleurisy

Pleurisy is typically diagnosed using a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Chest X-ray or CT scan to visualize the lungs and pleura
• Ultrasound or MRI to evaluate the pleura and surrounding tissues
• Pleural fluid analysis to check for infection, inflammation, or cancer cells
• Blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation
• Pulmonary function tests to assess lung function

Treatments for Pleurisy

The treatment for pleurisy depends on the underlying cause, but common treatments include:

• Antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat infections
• Pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage chest pain
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and swelling
• Oxygen therapy to help improve breathing
• Thoracentesis or pleural drainage to remove excess fluid from the pleura
• Pleurodesis or pleurectomy to remove the affected pleura or prevent further fluid accumulation
• Cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, if cancer is the underlying cause

Complications of Pleurisy

If left untreated or poorly managed, pleurisy can lead to complications, including:

• Pleural effusion or fluid accumulation in the pleura
• Empyema or pus accumulation in the pleura
• Atelectasis or lung collapse
• Respiratory failure or difficulty breathing
• Sepsis or bloodstream infection

Prevention of Pleurisy

To reduce the risk of developing pleurisy, it is essential to:

• Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with people who have infectious diseases
• Get vaccinated against flu and other respiratory infections
• Avoid exposure to asbestos or other occupational hazards
• Manage underlying medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or cancer
• Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of pleurisy occur