Summary about Disease
Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura, the two large, thin layers of tissue that separate your lungs from your chest wall. These layers are normally lubricated, allowing them to glide smoothly against each other as you breathe. When pleurisy occurs, the layers become inflamed and rub together like sandpaper, causing sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing.
Symptoms
Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or sneezing.
Shortness of breath.
Dry cough.
Fever (sometimes).
Rapid, shallow breathing.
Pain may radiate to the shoulder or back.
Causes
Pleurisy is usually caused by an underlying condition. Common causes include:
Viral infection: The most common cause.
Bacterial infection: Such as pneumonia.
Fungal infection.
Autoimmune disorders: Such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Pulmonary embolism.
Cancer: Lung cancer, mesothelioma, or cancer that has spread to the pleura.
Chest trauma.
Certain medications.
Asbestos exposure.
Medicine Used
Treatment for pleurisy focuses on managing the pain and treating the underlying cause. Medications may include:
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen. Stronger pain medications may be prescribed.
Cough suppressants: To reduce coughing.
Antibiotics: If the pleurisy is caused by a bacterial infection.
Antifungals: If the pleurisy is caused by a fungal infection.
Other medications: To treat the underlying condition, such as corticosteroids for autoimmune disorders.
Thoracentesis: Fluid removal from pleural space may alleviate symptoms.
Is Communicable
Pleurisy itself is not communicable. However, if the pleurisy is caused by a contagious infection (like a viral or bacterial infection), that infection can be spread to others.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the underlying cause of the pleurisy. General recommendations include:
Rest: Avoid strenuous activity and get plenty of rest.
Manage pain: Follow your doctor's instructions for pain relief.
Treat the underlying cause: Adhere to the treatment plan for the condition causing the pleurisy.
Avoid irritants: Avoid smoking and exposure to irritants that can worsen respiratory symptoms.
If contagious: If the cause is a contagious infection, practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the infection (e.g., handwashing, covering coughs).
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of pleurisy depends on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of treatment. It can last from a few days to several weeks. Viral pleurisy may resolve on its own within a week or two. Pleurisy caused by bacterial infection, if treated with antibiotics, may resolve within a similar timeframe. Pleurisy related to chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases may be ongoing and require long-term management.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Physical exam: Listening to your lungs with a stethoscope. A grating sound (pleural rub) may be heard.
Imaging tests:
Chest X-ray: To look for fluid in the pleural space or signs of pneumonia or other lung problems.
CT scan: Provides more detailed images of the lungs and pleura.
Ultrasound: Can help detect fluid in the pleural space.
Blood tests: To look for signs of infection or autoimmune disorders.
Thoracentesis: Removing a sample of fluid from the pleural space for analysis.
Pleural biopsy: Taking a sample of the pleura tissue for analysis.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary depending on the cause. Generally:
Initial onset: Sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing.
Early stages: Shortness of breath, dry cough.
Progression: Pain may increase in intensity. Fever may develop if an infection is present.
Resolution: With treatment of the underlying cause, pain gradually decreases, and breathing becomes easier. Symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks.
Important Considerations
Pleurisy can be a symptom of a serious underlying condition, so it's important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully, and take all medications as prescribed.
If you experience any worsening of symptoms, such as increased shortness of breath or high fever, seek immediate medical care.
Pain management is crucial. Use pain relievers as directed to stay comfortable and promote recovery.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications such as empyema (collection of pus in the pleural space) or chronic pleurisy.