Pleurisy Symptoms
Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
Pleurisy is inflammation of the linings around the lungs (the pleura). There are two layers of pleura; one covering the lung and the other covering the inner wall of the chest. These two layers are lubricated by pleural fluid. Pleurisy is characterized by pain in the chest with breathing. Pleurisy can also cause pain, cough, chest tenderness, and shortness of breath.
Pleurisy is frequently associated with the accumulation of extra fluid in the space between the two layers of pleura. This fluid is referred to as a pleural effusion. Pleurisy is also referred to as pleuritis.
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REFERENCE:
Fauci, Anthony S., et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2008.
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Other Causes of Pleurisy
- Certain Drugs: Drugs That Can Cause Lupus (Such As Hydralazine, Procan, Dilantin, and Others)
- Infections: Bacterial, Mycobacteria, Fungus, Parasites, or Viruses
- Inhaled Particles: Exposure to Asbestos
- Lung Infarction: Lung Tissue Death Due to Lack of Oxygen From Poor Blood Supply
- Obstruction of Lymph Channels: Because of Centrally Located Lung Tumors
- Trauma: Rib Fractures or Injury From Instruments in the Chest From an Operation, Car Accidents
- Tumors of the Pleura: Sarcoma
Examples of Medications for Pleurisy
- Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- prednisone, Deltasone, Liquid Pred
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