Pleurisy Overview: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Discover what pleurisy is, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Learn how this inflammation of the lung lining can be managed effectively with timely medical care.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 22nd Aug, 2025
Pleurisy is a condition that affects the lining of your lungs, causing sharp chest pain when you breathe, cough, or sneeze. While it can be uncomfortable, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage it effectively. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about pleurisy in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What Is Pleurisy?
Pleurisy, also called pleuritis, is the inflammation of the pleura, a thin, double-layered membrane that surrounds your lungs and lines your chest cavity. Normally, these layers glide smoothly over each other as you breathe. However, when they become inflamed, they rub together, causing sharp, stabbing pain.
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Common Causes of Pleurisy
Pleurisy is usually a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a disease itself. Some common causes include:
1. Viral Infections – The most frequent cause, often linked to flu or cold viruses.
2. Bacterial Infections – Such as pneumonia or tuberculosis.
3. Autoimmune Disorders – Like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Lung Conditions – Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung), lung cancer, or pneumothorax (collapsed lung).
5. Other Causes – Rib injuries, chest trauma, or certain medications.
Symptoms of Pleurisy
The most noticeable symptom is sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Other signs include:
Shortness of breath (due to shallow breathing to avoid pain).
Dry cough (if caused by infection).
Fever and chills (if infection is present).
Pain that radiates to the shoulder or back.
These could indicate a serious condition like a pulmonary embolism or pneumonia.
How Is Pleurisy Diagnosed?
Your doctor may perform:
Physical exam (listening for pleural friction rub, a grating sound when breathing).
Imaging tests (chest X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound).
Blood tests (to check for infections or autoimmune diseases).
Thoracentesis (fluid removal from the pleura for analysis).
Treatment Options for Pleurisy
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
1. Pain Relief – Over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen) help reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Treating Infections – Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals (if needed).
3. Managing Underlying Conditions – Autoimmune disorders may require steroids or immunosuppressants.
4. Draining Excess Fluid – If fluid buildup (pleural effusion) is severe, a doctor may drain it.
Self-Care & Lifestyle Tips
While recovering, you can:
Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
Use a heating pad for pain relief.
Practice deep breathing exercises (to prevent lung complications).
Stay hydrated to thin mucus if coughing is present.
Avoid smoking, as it worsens lung health.
Can Pleurisy Be Prevented?
While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce risks by:
Getting vaccinated (flu, pneumonia shots).
Managing chronic conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis).
Quitting smoking to protect lung health.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you suspect pleurisy or have persistent chest pain, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention prevents complications like pleural effusion (fluid buildup) or lung scarring.
Need Expert Advice?
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Conclusion
Pleurisy can be painful, but with proper treatment and care, most people recover fully. Understanding its causes and symptoms helps in early detection and management. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional.
Consult a Top Pulmonologist
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