Pleurisy

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Other names for Pleurisy

Pleuritis
Inflammation of the pleura
Pleuritic chest pain

Synopsis of Pleurisy

Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura—the two thin layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest wall. When these layers become inflamed, they rub against each other during breathing, causing sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with inhalation, coughing, or sneezing. Pleurisy is typically a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a viral infection, pneumonia, or autoimmune disease. Though often short-lived and treatable, severe or persistent cases may require investigation for complications like pleural effusion (fluid buildup) or pulmonary embolism.

Types:

  • Viral pleurisy: Most common, due to respiratory viruses

  • Bacterial pleurisy: Often from pneumonia or tuberculosis

  • Autoimmune pleurisy: Seen in lupus, rheumatoid arthritis

  • Malignant pleurisy: Caused by cancer affecting the pleura

  • Dry pleurisy: No fluid buildup, sharp localized pain

  • Wet pleurisy (pleural effusion): Fluid collects between pleural layers, may reduce pain but impair breathing

Common Causes:

  • Viral infections (e.g., influenza, RSV, COVID-19)

  • Bacterial infections like pneumonia or tuberculosis

  • Pulmonary embolism or trauma to the chest

  • Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or RA

  • Lung cancer or metastases

  • Rib fractures or chest surgery

Severity Causes:

  • Severity of the underlying disease (e.g., TB, PE, cancer)

  • Delay in diagnosis or treatment

  • Development of pleural effusion or empyema (infected fluid)

  • Compromised immune function

When to See a Doctor:

  • Sharp, stabbing chest pain with breathing

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

  • Fever, chills, or persistent cough

  • Chest pain that worsens when lying down

  • History of lung disease or recent respiratory infection

Natural remedies for Pleurisy

Warm compress: Applying a warm towel or heating pad to the chest may ease pain and relax the muscles around inflamed pleural tissue.

Ginger tea: Ginger’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties may help relieve pleuritic pain and calm associated coughing when consumed several times daily.

Turmeric: The compound curcumin in turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce pleural inflammation when taken with black pepper for better absorption.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus and reduces coughing intensity, which can minimize irritation of the pleura.

Rest and shallow breathing techniques: Gentle, controlled breathing helps reduce pain while allowing for adequate oxygen intake. Avoid overexertion during flare-ups.

Eucalyptus steam inhalation: Inhaling steam infused with eucalyptus oil helps clear congestion and ease breathing, especially in pleurisy caused by respiratory infection.

Elevation during sleep: Sleeping with the upper body elevated reduces pressure on the lungs and pleura, making breathing easier and minimizing nighttime pain.