Pleurisy (patient information): Difference between revisions
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*[[Chest x-ray|X-ray of the chest]] | *[[Chest x-ray|X-ray of the chest]] | ||
==When to seek | ==When to seek urgent medical care== | ||
Call your [[health care provider]] if you have [[symptoms]] of [[pleurisy]]. If you have [[breathing difficulty]] or your [[skin]] turns blue, seek immediate medical care. | |||
==Treatment options== | ==Treatment options== | ||
Revision as of 16:28, 23 March 2010
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What is Pleurisy?
Pleurisy is inflammation of the lining of the lungs and chest (the pleura) that leads to chest pain (usually sharp) when you take a breath or cough.
What are the symptoms of Pleurisy?
The main symptom of pleurisy is pain in the chest. This pain most likely occurs when you take a deep breath in or out, or cough. Some people feel the pain in the shoulder.
Deep breathing, coughing, and chest movement makes the pain worse.
Pleurisy can cause fluid to collect inside the chest cavity. This can make breathing difficult and may cause the following symptoms:
- Bluish skin color (cyanosis)
What causes Pleurisy?
Pleurisy may develop when you have lung inflammation due to infections such as pneumonia or tuberculosis. It is often a sign of a viral infection of the lungs. This inflammation also causes the sharp chest pain of pleurisy.
It may also occur with:
- Asbestos-related disease
- Certain cancers
- Chest trauma
- Pulmonary embolus
- Rheumatic diseases
Who is at risk for Pleurisy?
How do I know I have Pleurisy?
When you have pleurisy, the normally smooth lining of the lung (the pleura) become rough. They rub together with each breath, and may produce a rough, grating sound called a "friction rub." The health care professional can hear this sound with the stethoscope, or by placing an ear against the chest.
The health care provider may perform the following tests:
- Ultrasound of the chest
When to seek urgent medical care
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of pleurisy. If you have breathing difficulty or your skin turns blue, seek immediate medical care.
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Pleurisy
Directions to Hospitals Treating Pleurisy