Pleurisy
Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, which is the double-layered membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the inside of the chest cavity. The pleura consists of two layers: the visceral pleura, which covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest cavity. Normally, these layers glide smoothly against each other, allowing the lungs to expand and contract during breathing without friction.
When pleurisy occurs, the normally smooth pleural surfaces become inflamed and can rub against each other, causing pain and discomfort. Common causes of pleurisy include:
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Viral Infections: Respiratory viruses, such as the flu or common cold, are a common cause of pleurisy.
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Bacterial Infections: Bacterial pneumonia or other lung infections can lead to pleurisy.
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Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot in the lungs can lead to pleurisy.
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Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause pleurisy.
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Chest Trauma: Injuries to the chest, such as rib fractures, can result in pleurisy.
The primary symptom of pleurisy is chest pain, which can be sharp and worsen with breathing or coughing. Other symptoms may include:
Shallow, rapid breathing to minimize chest pain.
A dry cough.
Fever (if an infection is the cause).
Breathing difficulties.
The diagnosis of pleurisy often involves a physical examination, imaging tests (such as chest X-rays or CT scans), and sometimes blood tests. The underlying cause of the pleurisy will determine the treatment. For example:
If the cause is an infection, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed.
For autoimmune-related pleurisy, treatment will focus on managing the underlying autoimmune condition.
Pain relief medications may be used to manage chest pain.
It's essential to address the underlying cause of pleurisy to effectively treat the condition. Left untreated, pleurisy can lead to complications, such as pleural effusion (the accumulation of excess fluid in the pleural space) or the development of adhesions between the pleural layers. If you suspect you have pleurisy or are experiencing chest pain and breathing difficulties, it's crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.