Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura, the double-layered membrane surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity. This condition causes sharp, stabbing chest pain that often worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or movement. The pain is due to the friction between the inflamed pleural layers as they rub against each other. Pleurisy can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections such as pneumonia or viral illnesses, which can lead to inflammation of the pleura. Other causes include autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the pleural lining. Additionally, pleurisy can result from chest injuries, lung conditions like pulmonary embolism, or tumors affecting the pleura. Treatment for pleurisy focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms. For infections, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed to treat the underlying illness. Pain relief is often managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other analgesics to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. In cases where pleurisy is caused by autoimmune diseases or other chronic conditions, treatment may involve corticosteroids or disease-modifying medications to control inflammation. Rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can also be helpful. If pleurisy is associated with more serious conditions like a pulmonary embolism or cancer, specific treatments for those conditions will be required. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as managing pleurisy effectively depends on identifying and treating its root cause.
