What is Pleurisy

Pleurisy is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, a thin membrane that lines the chest cavity and surrounds the lungs. This condition can cause sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing. The inflammation of the pleura can be caused by various factors, such as viral or bacterial infections, pneumonia, autoimmune disorders, or lung diseases.

Common symptoms of pleurisy include chest pain that may radiate to the shoulder or back, shortness of breath, coughing, and fever. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, listening to the lungs with a stethoscope, and sometimes imaging tests like chest X-rays or CT scans.

Treatment for pleurisy aims to relieve the underlying cause and manage symptoms. This may involve antibiotics for bacterial infections, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and pain, or pain relievers. In some cases, removing excess fluid from the pleural space through a procedure called thoracentesis may be necessary.

If you experience persistent chest pain or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.