Pleurisy (patient information)
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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 to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Pleurisy
Directions to Hospitals Treating Pleurisy