Understanding Pleurisy

What is Pleurisy?

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammation of the pleura - the thin, double-layered membrane that surrounds your lungs and lines the inside of your chest cavity.

Key Symptoms

• Sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing
• Pain that intensifies with coughing or sneezing
• Shortness of breath
• Shallow breathing (to avoid pain)
• Localized tenderness in the chest area

Common Causes

Infectious Causes:

• Viral infections (most common)
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Tuberculosis

Non-infectious Causes:

• Autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
• Pulmonary embolism
• Pneumothorax
• Chest trauma
• Certain medications

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider may use several methods to diagnose pleurisy:

• Physical examination
• Chest X-ray
• CT scan
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound
• Pleural fluid analysis (if fluid is present)

Treatment Options

Primary Treatment

• Treating the underlying cause
• Pain management with NSAIDs
• Rest and limited activity

Additional Measures

• Prescription medications when needed
• Physical therapy in some cases
• Breathing exercises

When to Seek Medical Care

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• High fever
• Coughing up blood

Prevention

• Prompt treatment of respiratory infections
• Regular vaccinations
• Smoking cessation
• Management of underlying conditions

Recovery

Recovery time varies depending on the underlying cause but typically ranges from a few days to several weeks. Following your healthcare provider's treatment plan is essential for optimal recovery.