Summary about Disease
Pleuritis (also known as pleurisy) is an inflammation of the pleura, the two large, thin layers of tissue that separate the lungs from the chest wall. Inflammation causes sharp chest pain (pleuritic pain) that worsens during breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Sometimes, fluid accumulates in the pleural space (pleural effusion).
Symptoms
Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or sneezing.
Shortness of breath.
Cough.
Fever (depending on the underlying cause).
Rapid, shallow breathing.
Pain in the shoulder or back.
Causes
Pleuritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Viral infections: The most common cause (e.g., influenza, parainfluenza, adenovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus).
Bacterial infections: Pneumonia, tuberculosis.
Fungal infections: Less common, but possible, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Autoimmune disorders: Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis.
Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot in the lungs.
Cancer: Lung cancer, mesothelioma (cancer of the pleura).
Chest trauma: Rib fractures, blunt trauma.
Certain medications: Some drugs can cause pleuritis as a side effect.
Medicine Used
Treatment focuses on managing the pain and addressing the underlying cause. Medications may include:
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications, such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) or opioids, to manage pain.
Cough suppressants: To reduce coughing, which can worsen pain.
Antibiotics: If the pleuritis is caused by a bacterial infection.
Antifungal medications: If the pleuritis is caused by a fungal infection.
Other medications: Depending on the underlying cause (e.g., immunosuppressants for autoimmune disorders).
Procedures: In some cases, procedures like thoracentesis (draining fluid from the pleural space) or pleurodesis (sealing the pleural space) may be necessary.
Is Communicable
Pleuritis itself is not communicable. However, if the underlying cause is a contagious infection (like a viral or bacterial infection), that infection can be spread to others.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the underlying cause:
If caused by a contagious infection: Standard precautions like handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with others are essential to prevent spread.
General precautions: Avoid smoking and exposure to irritants that can worsen respiratory symptoms. Follow your doctor's recommendations for managing the underlying condition.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of pleuritis varies depending on the cause and treatment. With appropriate treatment, symptoms may improve within a few days to several weeks. In some cases, especially if the underlying cause is chronic, symptoms may persist for longer.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Medical history and physical examination: Listening to the lungs with a stethoscope may reveal a pleural friction rub (a grating sound caused by the inflamed pleural layers rubbing together).
Imaging tests:
Chest X-ray: To visualize the lungs and pleura.
CT scan: Provides more detailed images of the chest.
Ultrasound: Can help identify pleural effusions.
Blood tests: To look for signs of infection or autoimmune disorders.
Thoracentesis: Removing fluid from the pleural space for analysis.
Pleural biopsy: In some cases, a sample of the pleura may be taken for examination.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary. The pain can come on suddenly.
Initial stage: Sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing is the most common initial symptom.
Progression: Other symptoms like shortness of breath, cough, and fever may develop.
Resolution: With treatment, pain typically improves within a few days to weeks.
Important Considerations
It is crucial to identify and treat the underlying cause of pleuritis.
Severe chest pain should always be evaluated by a doctor to rule out other serious conditions.
People with autoimmune disorders or weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for pleuritis.
Smoking can worsen respiratory symptoms and should be avoided.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments.