What Is Costochondritis? Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

A painful condition involving the costochondral joint in the chest cavity – costochondritis describes inflammation of the cartilage that joins the ribs to the sternum (breastbone). The cartilage attached to the ribs is both tough and flexible, allowing movement during respiration whilst at the same time cushioning the joint.

Inflammation of the cartilage of one or more ribs in the sternum, can cause painful symptoms in the chest wall which may also radiate to a wider area of the chest.

Costochondritis and Tieze’s Syndrome

The term Costochondritis is often used interchangeably with a much rarer condition known as Tietze’s Syndrome – both diseases produce very similar symptoms and involve inflammation of the costochrondral joint; however, Tieze’s syndrome generally causes swelling of the cartilage as well as the painful symptoms, and typically affects young adults under the age of 40 years. Costochondritis is a relatively more common condition with no swelling – generally affecting adults over the age of 40 years.

Symptoms

Chest Pain

This is the most commonly reported symptom and can be characterised by anything from mild to severe sharp stabbing pains, depending on the individual.

Chest pain may worsen with:

• deep breathing, coughing or sneezing
• any type of physical activity
• any pressure applied to the chest such as a seatbelt or tight clothing
• lying down

Feelings of tenderness in the chest

Sensations of pressure or constraint in the chest area

Emergency Symptoms

The chest pain caused by costochondritis can begin gradually, although in some cases it occurs very suddenly, making it easy to confuse with other life threatening illnesses associated with sudden chest pain, such as heart attacks. The chest pain felt during a heart attack may be of similar nature to that of costochondritis; however, heart attack is generally accompanied by chest pain and other symptoms such as: pain felt elsewhere in the body (often in the left arm), feelings of light headedness/dizziness, nausea, difficulty breathing, sweating and severe feelings of anxiety and ill-being.

Note: any severe or persistent chest pain requires medical attention

Causes of Costochondritis

Costochondritis is idiopathic – in some cases however, the inflammation – which is the body’s natural response to infection and irritation, may be linked to the following:

• Infections
  • Respiratory Tract Infections
  • Wound Infection
• Viruses
• Arthritis
• Injury/trauma caused by physical impact e.g. car accident
• Physical strain from exercise
• Severe coughing
• Tumour

Diagnosis

The first steps of diagnosis will be a detailed physical examination, and evaluation of all symptoms, along with a review of the patient’s medical history.

To confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other possible conditions, further tests will be required, these may include:

• Chest X-Ray
• Electrocardiogram ECG (records the rhythms and electrical activity of the heart)
• Blood Test (to diagnose inflammation or infection)
• MRI or CT Scans

Treatment

Costochondritis usually settles by itself without treatment, although some cases may be prolonged causing chronic pain, for these cases there are various forms of treatment available.

Pain Medication

Over the counter medications – paracetamol and anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen or aspirin may provide relief for milder symptoms.

A physician may prescribe stronger medication such as:

• prescription only painkillers
• anti-depressants

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections are injected into and around the costochondral joint, these steroid injections are designed to reduce inflammation and the painful symptoms associated with it.

Physiotherapy

A trained physiotherapist can help devise a specific plan of stretches and exercise, as well as providing advice on helpful changes to your daily physical routine.

TENS Therapy

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation – a mild electrical current is delivered to the painful area, reducing pain signals travelling to the spinal cord and brain.

Pain Management

The symptoms associated with chronic pain can create something of a vicious circle. Any form of chronic pain can be extremely debilitating, interrupting many daily routines; the inability to carry out daily tasks and routines, due to the pain they cause, in turn, can lead to feelings of frustration, depression and isolation. Severe pain can make it difficult to concentrate on tasks, affecting the individual’s performance in the workplace; it is also very tiring and can impinge on restorative sleep, resulting in chronic fatigue. This has its own range of negative side effects such as low moods, irritability, depression, anxiety and difficulty with concentration.

Pain management clinicians do not understand pain purely in biological terms, they adopt the biopsychosocial approach which considers the biological, psychological and social aspects of the patient’s life and their complex interaction in the patient’s condition. By using this approach, the pain management consultant can devise a fully comprehensive, individually tailored patient plan which may incorporate a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, psychologists, physiotherapists and other health professionals to help not only treat the painful symptoms themselves, but also the negative side effects and thought processes they may produce.

Vector illustration credit: Vecteezy

Mid-Chest Inflammation in Dogs – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost

What is Mid-Chest Inflammation?

The mid-chest area in dogs is known as the mediastinum and contains the heart, the central bronchi, and the lymph nodes. This area can become inflamed for several reasons as the condition, known as mediastinitis, is a complication of several diseases and disorders. Treatment can range from simple anti-inflammatory drugs to surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the underlying cause of the swelling and the extent of the inflammation. Dogs that are displaying symptoms that indicate inflammation in the thorax should be evaluated by a veterinary professional.

The mid-chest area, or mediastinum, contains vital organs such as the heart, central bronchi, and lymph nodes, and when this area becomes inflamed, it can lead to serious complications.

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Symptoms of Mid-Chest Inflammation in Dogs

Inflammation of the canines mediastinum tends to have the same symptoms regardless of the cause. Some signs that your dog may be suffering from inflammation of their mediastinum may include:

• Chest pain
• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing, particularly on the in breath
• Excessive drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid heart rate
• Unusual vocalizations
• Vomiting
• Weight loss

Types

Mid-chest inflammation has a number of triggers and symptoms can either appear suddenly or may take longer to develop, depending on the underlying cause of the condition.

• Acute – When the symptoms develop quickly it is known as acute mediastinitis, and this is more likely to be due to perforation of the esophagus, certain types of bacterial infection, and from postoperative complications 
• Chronic – Symptoms of chronic mediastinitis may appear more gradually than when the condition is acute and is frequently accompanied by visible swelling and vocal changes when it is caused by neoplasia, although chronic mediastinitis can also be triggered by stubborn fungal infections 

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Causes of Mid-Chest Inflammation in Dogs

There are several circumstances that can encourage inflammation to occur in the mediastinum, some more serious than others. Some of the causes of inflammation of the mid-chest area can include:

• Bacterial infection
• Esophageal diverticula
• Foreign substance in the pleural space
• Fungal infections
• Internal rupture
• Neoplasia 
• Parasitic infestation
• Physical damage
• Postoperative complications

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Diagnosis of Mid-Chest Inflammation in Dogs

The initial visit with your veterinarian is likely to start with a full physical evaluation, most likely with a focus on the chest region, also known as the thoracic area. The thoracic area may be difficult to compress, and the animal may exhibit pain when palpated. Standard blood tests such as a complete blood count and biochemical profile will help to detect if there are a larger number of leukocytes present, indicating an infection as well as identifying if there are any additional imbalances, such as anemia.

In most cases, radiography and ultrasound imaging will be employed in order to get a clearer view of the patient’s thoracic cavity and the extent of the swelling and damage. This may also expose perforations in the dog’s esophagus or masses like neoplasms and cysts that are located in the mediastinum. The examiner will take samples of any masses that are found in the mid-chest region as well, and a biopsy will help determine if they are made up of cancer cells.

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Treatment of Mid-Chest Inflammation in Dogs

If your canine is showing signs of distress at the clinic, supportive treatments may be started before a definitive diagnosis is ascertained. The types of supportive treatments that are typically offered include the administration of fluid therapies by IV, and in the event that your canine is having trouble breathing, oxygen may also be recommended. In most cases, anti-inflammatory medications will also be prescribed to reduce both the swelling and the pain, although circumstances such as animals with bleeding disorders or poor liver function may not make these medications feasible. 

From there, treatments for this disorder are as varied as the sources of the ailment; blood transfusions may be required if anemia is detected in order to counteract internal bleeding and antibiotic or antifungal drugs may be needed to fight off any infections. Any growths that are located will be evaluated for removal, and if biopsies of the tissues show cancerous cells in the mass, then radiation and chemotherapy may be needed.

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Recovery of Mid-Chest Inflammation in Dogs

Prognosis for dogs that experience inflammation in the mid-chest region referred to medically as mediastinitis is largely dependent on which underlying causes are influencing the disorder. Canines that are recovering from anesthesia, as may be required for diagnosis and treatment of this condition, may have difficulties with their coordination when they first return home. They are often disoriented and confused, and isolation from other pets and from children may be advised until the sedatives have fully cleared your companion’s system. It is also crucial to ensure that your pet completes the full measure of any prescribed antibiotic medication to help prevent any relapses or new infections.

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Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment

Contents

• 1 Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatments
  • 1.1 Pleurisy: what is it?
  • 1.2 Pleurisy symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.2.1 Definition of pleurisy
  • 1.3 Pleurisy symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.3.1 Causes of pleurisy
  • 1.4 Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.4.1 Inflammatory and infectious causes
  • 1.5 Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.5.1 Cancer causes
  • 1.6 Traumatic causes of pleurisy
  • 1.7 Symptoms of pleurisy
  • 1.8 Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.8.1 Pain when breathing
  • 1.9 Pleurisy: chest pain
    • 1.9.1 Symptoms
    • 1.9.2 Causes
    • 1.9.3 Treatment
    • 1.9.4 Recommendations 90 008
  • 1. 10 Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.10.1 Chest pressure
  • 1.11 Pleurisy diagnosis
  • 1.12 Chest palpation
  • 1.13 P x-ray examinations for pleurisy
  • 1.14 Puncture of the pleural cavity
    • 1.14.1 What is it?
    • 1.14.2 How is a pleural puncture performed?
    • 1.14.3 What are the risks of pleural puncture?
  • 1.15 Treatment of pleurisy
  • 1.16 Antibiotic therapy for pleurisy
  • 1.17 Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • 1.18 Pleural drainage
  • 1.19 Surgery
    • 1.19.1 Indications for surgery 9000 8
    • 1.19.2 Types of operations
    • 1.19.3 Recovery process after operation
  • 1.20 Related videos:
  • 1.21 Q&A:
    • • 1.21.0.1 What are the symptoms of pleurisy?
      • 1.21.0.2 What are the causes of pleurisy and how can it be prevented?
      • 1.21.0.3 How is pleurisy diagnosed?
      • 1.21.0.4 What are the treatments for pleurisy?
      • 1. 21.0.5 How long does pleurisy last?
      • 1.21.0.6 Can there be complications with pleurisy?

Pleurisy is a lung disease in which the inflammatory process spreads to the pleura – the membrane covering the lungs and the inner surface of the chest. Symptoms, causes and treatments for pleurisy.

Pleurisy is a disease characterized by inflammation of the pleura, the membrane that covers the lungs and chest line. It can be caused by a variety of factors, from infectious diseases to trauma and autoimmune disorders. The severity of pleurisy can range from mild discomfort to severe respiratory distress. Symptoms of pleurisy include chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing, and weakness. Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and lung drainage.

The main symptoms of pleurisy are acute or dull pain in the chest, aggravated by inhalation or coughing. Also, pain can spread along the chest, localized in the neck, shoulder and abdomen, which complicates the diagnosis. In addition, coughing, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and general weakness of the body may appear. If you do not pay attention to the primary symptoms, pleurisy can lead to serious consequences – from complications of the respiratory system to death. Therefore, rapid diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are key components in the fight against this disease.

Treatment of pleurisy depends on its causes, depending on this, doctors use different groups of medicines. If the disease is caused by an infection, antibiotics are prescribed. Cases where pleurisy is a complication of other lung diseases require appropriate treatment aimed at treating the underlying disease. In some cases, it may be necessary to use anti-inflammatory and pain medications. If pleurisy is accompanied by fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, a lung drainage procedure is performed to remove excess fluid from the body.

In general, pleurisy is a reversible disease and, with timely diagnosis and treatment, can be successfully treated. However, it is important to understand the main symptoms of pleurisy and seek medical help at the first signs of the disease.

Pleurisy: what is it?

Pleurisy is a lung disease characterized by inflammation of the pleura. The pulmonary pleura is a two-layer membrane that surrounds the lungs. Inflammation of the pleura causes fluid to build up between the pleura, leading to chest pain, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms.

Pleurisy can be caused by various causes such as infections, injuries or other diseases. It can be categorized as dry pleurisy or wet pleurisy, depending on the presence or absence of fluid between the pleura.

Pleurisy may be acute or chronic. The acute form of pleurisy is usually manifested by sharp pains in the chest and shortness of breath. Chronic pleurisy may be longer and less severe in presentation, but it can also lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment

Definition of pleurisy

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura, the thin membranes that cover the lungs and line the chest cavity. This condition can be caused by various causes such as infection, injury, tumor, or autoimmune diseases.

Pleurisy can be diagnosed by a medical examination, including a blood test and a chest X-ray. Additional diagnostic methods may include computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

The treatment for pleurisy depends on its cause. If pleurisy is caused by an infection, treatment may include antibiotics. Analgesics may be prescribed to reduce pain. If pleurisy is caused by a tumor, surgery may be required. In some cases, pleurisy can heal on its own, but as a rule, medication is needed under the supervision of a doctor.

Pleurisy symptoms, causes and treatment

Causes of pleurisy

Pleurisy can be caused by various causes such as infections, trauma, cancer and autoimmune diseases. Acute pleurisy is usually caused by infectious causes such as streptococci, staphylococci, and pneumococci. Chronic pleurisy can be caused by several causes, including tuberculosis, cancer, systemic lupus erythematosus, and arthritis.

Traumatic pleurisy can be caused by trauma that damages the chest or lung. This can include injuries, falls, car accidents, and even surgical procedures such as pulmonary punctures. Cancer can metastasize from other areas of the body, such as the breast, liver, or kidneys, which can lead to pleurisy.

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus can also cause pleurisy. In these cases, the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, including the pleura, which can lead to inflammation. Chemical reactions can also cause pleurisy, such as reactions to drugs, food additives, and toxins.

Pleurisy can be avoided by following a few simple steps, such as avoiding smoking, protecting the chest and lungs from injury, getting vaccinated against infections, and having regular lung health checks.

Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment

Inflammatory and infectious causes

Pleurisy is one of the most common diseases that is accompanied by inflammation of the pleura, the thin membrane that covers the lungs. One of the causes of pleurisy is inflammatory processes that can occur in various organs and tissues, such as the lungs, bronchi, and heart.

Inflammation of the pleura is often caused by infectious diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, sepsis, influenza, and others. Viruses, bacteria, and fungi can cause inflammation of the pleura.

• Bacterial infection – occurs due to the effect of bacteria on the lung tissue, which causes the development of pneumonia. The patient feels pain when inhaling, an increase in body temperature, and also feels shortness of breath.
• Viral infection – occurs as a result of the impact of the virus on the pleura. Symptoms can range from weakness, headache and dry cough to intense chest pain and high fever.
• Fungal infection – causes the development of mycosis of the lungs and can cause inflammation of the pleura. The patient has difficulty breathing, coughing is often noted.

For the treatment of inflammatory and infectious pleurisy, it is necessary to accurately determine the cause of the disease and prescribe appropriate therapy. In most cases, doctors recommend antibacterial drugs, disinfectant solutions, antipyretics, anti-inflammatory drugs. Treatment may also include effective physical therapy and hot compresses.

Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment

Cancer causes

Cancer can be one of the main causes of pleurisy. Cancer of the lung, chest, breast, or other organs can lead to inflammation of the pleura. Cancer tumors can suppress the immune system, which contributes to the development of infections and inflammation.

Treatment of oncological diseases that cause pleurisy depends on the type of tumor, stage and characteristics of the patient’s body. Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery and other treatments can be used in various combinations.

Traumatic causes of pleurisy

Pleurisy can be caused by various traumatic causes that can damage the lungs and empty the pleural cavity.

1. Chest injuries. These may be injuries resulting from a car accident, a fall from a height, a blow to the chest, etc. With a chest injury, a rupture of the lung or damage to the pleura can occur, which leads to the development of pleurisy.
2. Lung puncture. This can occur as a result of a sharp object entering the chest, such as by accidentally inserting a needle into the chest or being hit by a bullet.
3. Surgical interventions. Some types of chest surgery can damage the pleura and cause pleurisy.

Traumatic pleurisy can be caused by trauma that does not involve the chest, such as burns or radiation. Therefore, it is important to seek immediate medical attention for any injury that could damage the lungs or pleura.

Symptoms of pleurisy

Pleurisy is an inflammatory disease of the pleura characterized by severe pain in the chest that is exacerbated by deep breathing or coughing. Symptoms of pleurisy often come on gradually, ranging from mild chest discomfort to severe pain, which can occur over several days.

In addition to pain, symptoms of pleurisy may include:

• Cough, which may worsen with less chest pain;
• Difficulty breathing, especially on exertion;
• Pleural effusions that may cause difficulty in breathing and pain;
• Fever, which is a sign of inflammation;
• Dryness or cough that occurs in acute pleurisy;
• Loss of appetite, weakness and tiredness, which may be due to pain and fever.

If you suspect pleurisy, see a doctor to get the correct diagnosis and treatment. You may need medication for pain and inflammation, as well as procedures to reduce pleural effusion.

Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment

Breathing pain

Breathing pain is one of the most common and characteristic symptoms of pleurisy. It occurs due to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the lungs and chest pleura. With every breathing movement, the pleura rubs against each other, which causes pain and discomfort.

The intensity of pain can vary from mild and tolerable to intense and unbearable, especially when taking a deep breath or coughing.

The patient is advised to use medications such as analgesics or indirect anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain. In addition, the doctor may prescribe complex therapy against pleurisy, which includes anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs, as well as physiotherapy.

Pleurisy: chest pain

Symptoms

One of the main symptoms of pleurisy is chest pain. This sensation is characterized as painful, cutting, dull or stabbing in the chest. Aches in the chest can occur both from the side of the entire chest, and have pinpoint lunges in certain areas of the chest.

Causes

Chest aches can be caused by various causes, including diseases of the respiratory system and the cardiovascular system. It can be pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, tonsillitis, pleural effusion, myocardial infarction, heart failure and others.

Treatment

Treatment for chest pain depends on its cause. When diagnosing pleurisy, the doctor prescribes painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as drugs that improve the flow of blood from the lungs. In some cases, surgery is required. In case of detection of other diseases, treatment takes place in accordance with their characteristics.

Recommendations

If you have chest pain, you should see a doctor and get tested to determine the cause. It is also important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for treating the underlying condition, reducing or eliminating smoking, and controlling your blood sugar if you have diabetes.

Pleurisy: symptoms, causes and treatment

Feeling of pressure in the chest

One of the symptoms of pleurisy, an inflammation of the lining of the lungs, is a feeling of pressure in the chest. This is due to the fact that inflammation leads to the accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity between the lungs and the chest. This fluid puts pressure on the lungs and creates a feeling of pressure in the chest.

However, a feeling of pressure in the chest can also be associated with other diseases of the lungs and heart, so an examination by a doctor is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment of pleurisy includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and diuretics. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove the accumulated fluid with a puncture of the pleural cavity.

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of pleurisy, including chest pressure, to avoid complications and start treatment sooner.

Pleurisy Diagnosis

Pleurisy is a serious disease that can be caused by various causes such as infectious, autoimmune, neoplastic or traumatic. In this regard, the diagnosis of pleurisy is an important stage of treatment and can be a challenge for many doctors.

The main symptoms of pleurisy are chest pain, shortness of breath and cough. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, making the diagnosis of pleurisy even more difficult. The doctor should conduct a comprehensive examination, including a blood and urine test, chest x-ray and computed tomography.

One of the most effective diagnostic methods is a pleural biopsy. This is a procedure that involves taking a sample of pleural tissue for later examination. A biopsy of the pleura can be done with a needle or general anesthesia.

In some cases, your doctor may also order a pleural puncture to take fluid samples for analysis. This method is more invasive but may be necessary to establish a diagnosis.

In any case, accurate diagnosis is essential for successful treatment of pleurisy. It is important to see a doctor at the first symptoms and follow his recommendations for examination and treatment.

Chest Palpation

If pleurisy is suspected, the doctor may palpate the patient’s chest. During palpation, the doctor checks for pain, muscle tension, changes in the shape of the chest and shift of the pleural plates.

During palpation, the doctor can use different methods, such as:

• Palpation with and without pressure;
• Palpation while sitting or lying on the back;
• Use of special palpation techniques.

Palpation of the chest is an important diagnostic method in determining pleurisy, as it can reveal characteristic changes in the tissues of the chest. If the doctor detects signs of pleurisy, he will make a diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment.

X-rays for pleurisy

If pleurisy is suspected, X-rays are an important diagnostic tool. An x-ray of the chest allows you to detect the presence of fluid in the pleural cavity and determine its volume.

If a pneumothorax occurs against the background of pleurisy, then X-ray studies also make it possible to establish the suspicion of this dangerous complication. On x-rays, a decrease in the size of the lung is noticeable, as if it “collapses”.

If a more detailed examination is required, a CT scan of the chest may be ordered. This method allows you to more accurately determine the volume and location of fluid in the pleural cavity.

It is important to note that X-ray examinations cannot always accurately determine the causes of pleurisy. This requires additional research methods, such as blood and urine tests, a biopsy of the pleura or lung.

Puncture of the pleural cavity

What is it?

A pleural puncture is a medical procedure that involves inserting a special needle into the pleural cavity to remove excess fluid or air that may have accumulated inside it and cause pleurisy.

How is a puncture of the pleural cavity performed?

Puncture of the pleural cavity is performed by a specialist doctor and can be performed both in inpatient and outpatient settings.

For the procedure, the patient needs to sit on a chair and lean forward, and then the health worker, after decontaminating the hands and the puncture site, inserts a needle into the chest area and removes excess fluid or air using a special syringe.

What are the risks of pleural puncture?

Although pleural puncture is a safe medical procedure, like any other invasive procedure, it may come with some risks, such as infection, bleeding, and pneumothorax.

However, if the puncture of the pleural cavity is performed by an experienced healthcare professional under sterile conditions, the risk of complications is minimal.

Treatment of pleurisy

Treatment of pleurisy depends on its type and cause. Acute pleurisy is more often treated in a hospital, while chronic pleurisy can be treated at home.

Treatment includes:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation
• Antibiotics to treat the infectious nature of pleurisy
• Analgesics to reduce chest pain
• Drugs to increase resolution inflammatory products from the pleural cavity
• If pleurisy is caused by malignancy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be used

Patients with pleurisy are advised to drink fluids, rest and avoid physical activity to prevent further progression of the disease.

Some cases of pleurisy require surgery:

• Drainage of the pleural cavity to remove accumulations of fluid or purulent discharge
• Pleurectomy – a procedure to remove the pleura and pleural cavity as a treatment for recurrent pleurisy 9000 8
• Pleuroperitoneal shunt can be used in cases where removal of the pleura is impossible or dangerous
• Surgical intervention for the treatment of diseases that lead to the development of pleurisy

For successful treatment of pleurisy, it is necessary to diagnose the disease at the time of the onset of its symptoms and remain under constant monitoring by specialists after the treatment.

Antibiotic therapy for pleurisy

Pleurisy is an acute infectious disease, therefore, antibiotic therapy is used to treat it. This therapy is aimed at eliminating the causative agent of the infection and preventing its spread.

The choice of antibiotics depends on the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to drugs. The most commonly used broad-spectrum drugs that cover most of the known causative agents of pleurisy, such as amoxicillin, ceftriaxone, azithromycin, etc.

It should be borne in mind that if the initial antibiotic therapy is ineffective, a correction in the choice of drugs may be required. It is also possible to use combined antibiotic regimens for a more effective effect on the infection.

• Empiric therapy is the use of antibiotics without prior identification of the pathogen.
• Targeted therapy – the use of antibiotics after clarifying the microorganism and its sensitivity to the drug.

Antibiotic therapy should be carried out for 7-14 days, depending on the severity of the disease and the clinical effectiveness of the drug used. It is also necessary to ensure that optimal levels of hydration are maintained and that the patient is monitored for possible side effects from antibiotic therapy.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Anti-inflammatory drugs are one of the most common treatments for pleurisy. Such drugs are aimed at reducing inflammation in the pleura and relieving pain, which has a positive effect on the general condition of the patient.

Among anti-inflammatory drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are most commonly prescribed, especially in the initial stage of the disease. These include effective and safe drugs such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and ketorolac. However, these medicines must be taken strictly according to the doctor’s prescription, observing the dosage and regimen in order to avoid side effects.

In more severe forms of pleurisy, when inflammation is severe, steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as prednisolone may be prescribed. However, these drugs have many side effects, so their use is accompanied by strict medical supervision.

Therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence of pleurisy may also be used. For example, the appointment of anti-tuberculosis drugs is necessary if pleurisy is caused by a tuberculosis infection.

Pleural drainage

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura that can lead to fluid in the pleural cavity. If fluid accumulates in large volumes, drainage may be required.

Pleural drainage is a procedure in which a thin, curved catheter is inserted into the pleural cavity through a small incision between the ribs. The catheter is connected to an aspirator or pleural balloon to remove excess fluid and air from the cavity.

Drainage is the best treatment option when there is significant fluid in the pleural cavity. However, this is a procedure that can be uncomfortable for the patient and requires proper supervision by medical personnel.

• Pleural drainage may be necessary in cases of various diseases such as lung cancer, tuberculosis or pneumonia.
• Various types of catheters may be used for pleural drainage, depending on the size and shape of the pleural cavity and other factors.
• Pleural drainage can prevent serious complications such as atelectasis, empyema (purulent infection), or pneumothorax.

Surgery

Indications for surgery

Pleurisy that cannot be controlled medically, or that causes significant breathing problems, may require surgery. Sometimes surgery is needed to remove purulent fluid from the pleural cavity if antibiotics do not help.

Types of surgery

Thoracoscopic surgery is the most common surgical treatment for pleurisy. They are performed using a special instrument that is inserted through a narrow tube into the chest cavity. During the operation, the surgeon removes the accumulated fluid from the pleural cavity and, if necessary, cuts out the affected tissue.

In more severe cases, it may be necessary to thoracotomy , which involves opening the patient’s chest cavity so that the surgeon can more easily remove purulent fluid and diseased tissue. This is a more invasive method that may require a long recovery time and a higher risk of surgery.

The recovery process after surgery

After thoracoscopic surgery, the recovery period is relatively short. The patient can return to work and normal activities within a few days after surgery. After a thoracotomy, recovery can take weeks or months, and patients may need physical rehabilitation.

In any case, after surgery, patients are advised to follow a strict medication schedule and visit the doctor on a regular basis to help prevent relapse and ensure full recovery.

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Q&A:

What are the symptoms of pleurisy?

The main symptoms of pleurisy include chest pain worsened by inhaling or coughing, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, high body temperature, dry cough, weakness and fatigue.

What are the causes of pleurisy and how can it be prevented?

Pleurisy can be caused by many causes, including infections, trauma, tumors, and autoimmune diseases. To prevent pleurisy, you should avoid contact with infectious diseases, strengthen the immune system and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

How is pleurisy diagnosed?

Diagnosis of pleurisy involves a doctor’s examination, a chest x-ray and/or CT scan, and analysis of the fluid that has accumulated between the lung and membranes.

What are the treatments for pleurisy?

Treatment of pleurisy depends on its cause. You can use medication in the form of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics, as well as perform drainage of fluid in the pleural cavity. In some cases, surgery may be required.

How long does pleurisy last?

The duration of pleurisy depends on its cause. In some cases, symptoms may worsen over several weeks or even months until appropriate treatment is given.

Can there be complications with pleurisy?

Yes, pleurisy can lead to various complications such as empyema, pneumothorax, congestive heart failure and others. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention in a timely manner when symptoms appear.

Pleurisy – health articles

Human lungs are located in the chest cavity. Outside they are covered with pleura. The pleura is a serous membrane that lines the inner layer of the chest cavity and envelops both lungs. The pleura is made up of mesothelial cells.

Pleurisy – an inflammatory disease of the pleura, which is characterized by the deposition of fibrin on their surface (fibrinous or dry pleurisy), or the accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity (exudative pleurisy).

This disease is very common. This is the most commonly diagnosed pathology of the lungs. In the general structure of the incidence of the population, pleurisy accounts for 5-15%.

Causes

Pleurisy is a disease that in most cases develops on the basis of some existing pathology. The most common cause of the development of an inflammatory reaction in the pleural cavity are various infections. Often pleurisy occurs against the background of systemic diseases, tumors, injuries.

Some authors refer to pleurisy and cases of pleural effusion without a clear presence of an inflammatory response. This situation is not entirely correct, since pleurisy is an ailment that involves an obligatory inflammatory component.

The following causes of pleurisy are distinguished:

• infection of the pleura;
• tuberculosis;
• allergic inflammatory reaction;
• autoimmune and systemic diseases;
• exposure to chemicals;
• chest injury;
• exposure to ionizing radiation;
• exposure to pancreatic enzymes;
• primary and metastatic tumors of the pleura.

Symptoms

Clinic of dry pleurisy is characterized by stabbing pains in the chest, aggravated by coughing, breathing and movement. The patient is forced to take a position, lying on a sore side, to limit the mobility of the chest. Breathing is superficial, sparing, the affected half of the chest noticeably lags behind during respiratory movements. Body temperature sometimes rises to subfebrile values, the course of pleurisy may be accompanied by chills, night sweats, and weakness.

Diaphragmatic dry pleurisy has a specific clinic: pain in the hypochondrium, chest and abdominal cavity, flatulence, hiccups, tension in the abdominal muscles.

The onset of exudative pleurisy is accompanied by a dull pain in the affected side, reflex arising painful dry cough, lagging of the corresponding half of the chest in breathing, pleural friction noise. As the exudate accumulates, the pain is replaced by a feeling of heaviness in the side, increasing shortness of breath. Exudative pleurisy is characterized by general symptoms: weakness, febrile body temperature, loss of appetite, sweating.

Diagnosis

An external examination performed by a doctor is very important for diagnosing pleurisy and determining its nature. During auscultation (listening to the lungs in different phases of breathing with a stethoscope), pleural friction noise can be detected, which is specific for fibrinous pleurisy, with exudative pleurisy during percussion (tapping a certain area to identify characteristic sound phenomena), there is a dullness of percussion sound above the effusion zone. Thus, it is possible to determine the spread of exudate in the pleural cavity.

In the general and biochemical blood tests, nonspecific inflammatory changes are noted: ESR acceleration, increase in the number of leukocytes; the appearance or increase in the concentration of inflammatory proteins.

Instrumental methods (ultrasound, radiography) play a significant role in the diagnosis of pleurisy, as they allow you to see the area of ​​the lesion and determine the nature of the inflammatory process.

Treatment

Treatment is determined by the form of pleurisy. Treatment of an infectious type of inflammation of the pleura involves the use of antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents, diuretics, painkillers. In the case of exudative inflammation, physiotherapy and exercise therapy can be used, but only after the effusion has resolved. If pulmonary tuberculosis is the cause of inflammation of the pleura, anti-tuberculosis drugs are prescribed.

Treatment involves the use of symptomatic remedies. If there are pleural fibrinous overlays (dry pleurisy), the patient should be provided with complete rest. In case of cough, antitussives are prescribed. Treatment often includes the setting of cans, mustard plasters, the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, and breathing exercises.

If a large volume of fluid has accumulated, a pleural puncture may be required.

Nutrition for pleurisy should be complete and meet physiological needs. It is required to include more foods rich in vitamins in the diet. The diet for pleurisy involves limiting the intake of carbohydrates and salt. It is also required to reduce the amount of liquid you drink to 500-600 ml. As for non-infectious pleurisy, its treatment involves the elimination of the underlying disease.