Which are the symptoms of Pleurisy?

Symptoms of Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, the thin membranes that line the lungs and the inner chest wall. This inflammation can cause sharp chest pain, known as pleuritic pain, which worsens with breathing or coughing. Pleurisy can be caused by various underlying conditions, such as viral or bacterial infections, autoimmune disorders, pulmonary embolism, or certain medications.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of pleurisy can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of inflammation. However, some common symptoms include:

• Pleuritic Chest Pain: The hallmark symptom of pleurisy is sharp, stabbing pain in the chest. The pain is typically localized to one side of the chest and worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing. The pain may also radiate to the shoulder or back.


• Shortness of Breath: Inflammation of the pleura can lead to a decrease in lung function, causing difficulty in breathing. This may result in shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or deep breaths.


• Dry Cough: Some individuals with pleurisy may experience a dry, non-productive cough. This cough is often a result of the irritation of the pleura and may worsen the chest pain.


• Fever: In cases where pleurisy is caused by an infection, such as pneumonia or viral respiratory infections, fever may be present. The body's immune response to the infection can lead to an elevated body temperature.


• Rapid Breathing: Due to the discomfort caused by pleuritic pain and shortness of breath, individuals may breathe rapidly or shallowly to minimize chest movement and reduce pain.


• Reduced Chest Expansion: In severe cases of pleurisy, the inflammation can restrict the expansion of the chest wall during breathing. This can be observed by decreased movement of the affected side of the chest compared to the unaffected side.

Less Common Symptoms

In addition to the common symptoms mentioned above, pleurisy may also present with less common symptoms, including:

• Joint Pain: In some cases, pleurisy can be associated with joint pain, particularly in individuals with autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.


• Headache: Although rare, some individuals with pleurisy may experience headaches, which can be a result of the underlying cause or the body's response to inflammation.


• Unexplained Weight Loss: If pleurisy is caused by an underlying condition, such as tuberculosis or cancer, unexplained weight loss may occur. This is often accompanied by other systemic symptoms related to the underlying disease.


• Fatigue: Chronic inflammation and the associated discomfort can lead to fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.


• Abdominal Pain: Occasionally, the pain associated with pleurisy can be referred to the abdomen, leading to abdominal discomfort or pain.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially persistent chest pain or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and provide appropriate treatment to address the underlying cause of pleurisy.