How to Identify Symptoms of Pleurisy

Pleurisy is the term that is applied to a condition that describes inflammation or irritation to the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, called the pleura. This lining is made up of two layers of thin membrane. Pleurisy may be caused by a multitude of factors, including but not limited to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection, injuries or blood clots, disease or general irritants. The condition is caused when fluid builds up between the two thin layers of membranes, which is called "wet pleurisy." If no fluid buildup is present, the condition is called "dry pleurisy." The condition may affect all ages and genders, but risks increase with pneumonia or other lung or chest infections, as well as rib fractures and many kidney, liver and pancreas disorders and cancers. An individual who knows how to identify symptoms of pleurisy may initiate prompt treatment as well as to avoid complications.

Instructions

1. Pay attention to any sudden chest pains that worsen with breathing or coughing. Many individuals state that the pain is similar to that experienced with a broken rib. The pain may vary by individual, from a dull, throbbing ache to sharp, stabbing pain sensations. The pain will generally be localized over the area of the chest that is affected.

2. Take your temperature. Sometimes but not always, pleurisy will present with a fever. If you have chronic lung problems such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or similar conditions, you may be at a higher risk to develop pleurisy.

3. Watch for signs of rapid or shallow breathing when sitting or standing. People afflicted with pleurisy often lie on the affected side, as it helps to relive the pain of breathing. However, as the condition worsens, breathing becomes increasingly difficult no matter what position is taken.

4. Pay attention to discomfort or pain when moving or touching the affected side, especially if you feel you might have injured a rib. Tender or sensitive areas that feel bruised (with or without the presence of a bruise) are an indication that something is wrong.

5. Take notes of your physical condition and how you feel on a day-to-day basis. Never try to self diagnose a condition, but do be aware of what is normal and what is not for your own body. If you have any unusual or noticeable difficulty breathing, schedule a visit with your doctor for tests.

Tips & Warnings

• Prompt treatment may provide relief of symptoms within one to two weeks. Some individuals (with the advice of a physician) may find some relief through chest binding. However, avoid binding chest for more than a couple of hours at a time. Though binding may provide relief from pain, remove binding every couple of hours and force yourself to take deep breaths to help prevent pneumonia.

• Left untreated, pleurisy may lead to complications such as pneumonia and fluid buildup that will severely affect breathing. In addition, scar tissue (adhesions) may form, which may cause chronic breathing difficulties.