Treatment and Diagnosis for Pleurisy

What do doctors call this condition? - Pleuritis

What is this Condition?

Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura, the serous membrane that lines the inside of the rib cage and envelops the lungs.

What Causes it?

Pleurisy develops as a complication of pneumonia, tuberculosis, viruses, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, uremia, Dressler's syndrome, cancer, pulmonary infarction, and chest injury.

What are its Symptoms?

This disorder usually begins suddenly. Sharp, stabbing pain that increases with respiration may be so severe that it limits movement on the affected side during breathing. Shortness of breath also occurs. Other symptoms vary according to the underlying disease.

How is it Diagnosed?

During the physical exam, the doctor will listen for a coarse, creaky sound during breathing called a pleural friction rub. Palpation over the affected area may reveal coarse vibration.

How is it Treated?

Treatment generally focuses on relieving symptoms and includes anti-inflammatory agents, pain relievers, and bed rest. To control severe pain, the person may require local anesthesia (an intercostal nerve block of two or three intercostal nerves). If pleurisy occurs with pleural effusion, thoracentesis is required.