What are the best natural remedies for pleurisy. How can you alleviate pleurisy symptoms at home. Which herbal treatments help reduce pleurisy inflammation and pain. What lifestyle changes can improve pleurisy recovery.

Understanding Pleurisy: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Pleurisy is an inflammatory condition affecting the pleura, the double-layered membrane surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity. The hallmark symptom is sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or movement. Other common symptoms include shortness of breath and a dry cough.

Pleurisy can result from various causes:

• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
• Chest injuries or trauma
• Certain medications
• Underlying lung or systemic diseases

The severity of pleurisy varies depending on the underlying cause. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While home remedies can help manage symptoms, they should complement, not replace, prescribed medical care.

Heat Therapy: A Simple Yet Effective Pleurisy Treatment

Heat therapy is one of the easiest and most effective home remedies for pleurisy relief. It helps ease breathing and alleviate pain associated with the condition. How does heat therapy work for pleurisy?

• Increases blood circulation to the affected area
• Relaxes tense muscles around the chest
• Reduces inflammation and pain
• Promotes easier breathing

How to Apply Heat Therapy for Pleurisy Relief

1. Soak a clean towel in hot water for about 5 minutes.
2. Gently apply the hot towel to your chest, massaging the area.
3. Practice deep breathing exercises while using the hot pack.
4. Alternatively, take a hot bath with a few drops of olbas oil added for enhanced breathing relief.

It’s important to note that heat therapy should be avoided if you have a fever accompanying your pleurisy. In such cases, cold packs are more appropriate to help reduce fever while still providing pain relief.

Cayenne Pepper: Nature’s Anti-inflammatory for Pleurisy

Cayenne pepper is a powerful natural remedy for pleurisy due to its multiple beneficial properties. How does cayenne pepper help with pleurisy symptoms?

• Acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent
• Helps eliminate toxins from the body
• Aids in breaking down and expelling mucus
• Possesses antibacterial properties

Preparing a Cayenne Pepper Drink for Pleurisy Relief

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with a glass of hot water.
2. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before drinking.
3. Consume this remedy three times daily for best results.

Alternatively, you can incorporate cayenne pepper into your meals to experience its beneficial effects throughout the day.

Ginger: A Respiratory System Ally in Pleurisy Treatment

Raw ginger has long been recognized for its therapeutic effects on respiratory conditions, including pleurisy. How does ginger benefit those suffering from pleurisy?

• Reduces inflammation around the lungs
• Alleviates chest pain associated with pleurisy
• Boosts the immune system
• Possesses natural expectorant properties

Preparing a Ginger Remedy for Pleurisy

1. Grate or finely chop a 1/2 inch piece of raw ginger root.
2. Add the ginger to a glass of hot water.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of raw organic honey for added benefits and taste.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes before drinking.

Consume this ginger tea 2-3 times daily to experience relief from pleurisy symptoms.

Turmeric: The Golden Spice for Pleurisy Management

Turmeric, renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, can be a valuable addition to your pleurisy treatment regimen. How does turmeric help in managing pleurisy?

• Reduces inflammation in the pleural membranes
• Alleviates pain associated with pleurisy
• Boosts the immune system
• Supports overall respiratory health

Incorporating Turmeric into Your Pleurisy Treatment Plan

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a glass of warm milk.
2. Add a pinch of black pepper to enhance turmeric absorption.
3. Stir well and drink once or twice daily.

You can also include turmeric in your cooking or take turmeric supplements after consulting with your healthcare provider.

Garlic: Nature’s Antibiotic for Pleurisy Relief

Garlic, often referred to as nature’s antibiotic, can be particularly beneficial for pleurisy caused by bacterial infections. How does garlic contribute to pleurisy treatment?

• Possesses strong antibacterial properties
• Reduces inflammation in the respiratory system
• Boosts the immune system
• Aids in expelling mucus from the lungs

Using Garlic to Combat Pleurisy

1. Crush 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to activate allicin, the main beneficial compound.
2. Consume the crushed garlic raw, or mix it with a tablespoon of honey for easier ingestion.
3. Repeat this 2-3 times daily.

If you find raw garlic too potent, you can also incorporate it into your meals or consider taking garlic supplements.

Eucalyptus Oil: Breathing Easier with Aromatherapy

Eucalyptus oil is a popular essential oil known for its respiratory benefits, making it an excellent choice for pleurisy symptom relief. How does eucalyptus oil help with pleurisy?

• Acts as a natural decongestant
• Helps clear airways and ease breathing
• Possesses anti-inflammatory properties
• Provides a cooling sensation that can help with pain relief

Using Eucalyptus Oil for Pleurisy Relief

1. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water.
2. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.
3. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily.

Alternatively, you can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil and gently massage it onto your chest and back.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fighting Inflammation from Within

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and certain plant sources, can play a crucial role in managing pleurisy by reducing inflammation throughout the body. How do omega-3s help with pleurisy?

• Possess potent anti-inflammatory properties
• Support overall immune function
• May help reduce the severity and duration of pleurisy symptoms
• Promote general respiratory health

Incorporating Omega-3s into Your Pleurisy Treatment Plan

1. Consume fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or sardines 2-3 times per week.
2. Include plant-based sources of omega-3s such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts in your diet.
3. Consider taking a high-quality fish oil or algae-based omega-3 supplement after consulting with your healthcare provider.

Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the anti-inflammatory benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, so aim to incorporate them into your diet regularly.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Pleurisy Recovery

In addition to natural remedies, certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact your recovery from pleurisy. What lifestyle modifications can help manage pleurisy symptoms?

• Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and herbal teas
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Practice gentle breathing exercises to improve lung function
• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist and ease breathing
• Maintain good posture to reduce strain on the chest and lungs

Breathing Exercises for Pleurisy Recovery

1. Sit upright in a comfortable position.
2. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen.
3. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your abdomen expand.
4. Exhale slowly through pursed lips, gently contracting your abdominal muscles.
5. Repeat this process for 5-10 minutes, several times a day.

Remember to start with shallow breaths and gradually increase the depth of your breathing as your condition improves.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Pleurisy

While natural remedies can be effective in managing pleurisy symptoms, it’s crucial to know when professional medical care is necessary. When should you consult a doctor for pleurisy?

• If you experience severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
• If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve with home treatment
• If you develop a high fever or chills
• If you notice a bluish tint to your lips or fingertips
• If you have a history of heart or lung disease

Pleurisy can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice when in doubt.

Combining Natural Remedies with Conventional Treatment

While natural remedies can provide significant relief from pleurisy symptoms, it’s important to use them in conjunction with conventional medical treatment. How can you effectively combine natural and conventional approaches to pleurisy treatment?

• Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new natural remedy
• Inform your doctor about any supplements or herbal treatments you’re using
• Continue taking prescribed medications as directed by your physician
• Use natural remedies as complementary treatments, not replacements for medical care
• Monitor your symptoms closely and report any changes to your healthcare provider

By integrating natural remedies with conventional treatment, you can create a comprehensive approach to managing pleurisy that addresses both symptom relief and underlying causes.

Preventing Pleurisy: Proactive Measures for Lung Health

While not all cases of pleurisy can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and maintain overall lung health. What preventive measures can help protect against pleurisy?

• Maintain a strong immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise
• Practice good hygiene to prevent respiratory infections
• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Manage chronic conditions that may increase your risk of pleurisy
• Get vaccinated against pneumonia and influenza
• Protect yourself from environmental pollutants and irritants

Boosting Your Immune System to Prevent Pleurisy

1. Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
2. Include immune-boosting foods like garlic, ginger, and citrus fruits in your meals
3. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
4. Get regular moderate exercise to enhance immune function
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
6. Ensure you get adequate sleep each night

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing pleurisy and other respiratory conditions.

Understanding the Long-Term Outlook for Pleurisy Patients

For many individuals, pleurisy is a temporary condition that resolves with proper treatment. However, it’s important to understand the potential long-term implications and follow-up care needed. What should pleurisy patients know about their long-term outlook?

• Most cases of viral pleurisy resolve within a few weeks with appropriate treatment
• Bacterial pleurisy may require a longer recovery period and antibiotic treatment
• Some patients may experience recurring episodes of pleurisy
• Long-term lung health monitoring may be necessary, especially for those with underlying conditions
• Lifestyle changes and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of future episodes

Follow-Up Care After Pleurisy Treatment

1. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider
2. Undergo recommended lung function tests to assess recovery
3. Continue with any prescribed medications or treatments as directed
4. Gradually increase physical activity as advised by your doctor
5. Report any recurring symptoms or concerns promptly

By staying vigilant and proactive in your follow-up care, you can ensure the best possible long-term outcome after experiencing pleurisy.

Best Home Remedies For Pleurisy

Pleurisy is a condition that refers to the inflammation of the pleura. The pleura is the medical term for the double layers that surround and cover the lungs as well as line the rib cage. The most obvious symptom of this condition is the excruciating pain one feels when they breathe. This pain is worsened when one sneezes, coughs or moves around. Depending on one’s sleeping position, it is also very easy for one to worsen the pain. Other associated symptoms of pleurisy include a dry cough as well as shortness of breath.

Sometimes this is accompanied by the accumulation of fluid around the lungs, a factor which necessitates medical attention. There are different causes of pleurisy with the most common been viral infections, bacterial infections as well as trauma or injuries to the chest.

In some instances, drug reactions may also result in the inflammation of the double-layered membrane around the lungs. As a general guide, the severity of this condition is as varied as the underlying cause. For this reason, it is important to see a doctor immediately you start experiencing the symptoms linked to pleurisy.

Not only does this eliminate the risk of misdiagnosis, it also ensures speedy recovery. The home remedies listed below are to be used as an adjunct treatment option in addition to prescribed medication. This medication typically involves the use of antibiotics for bacterial infections alongside anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain. Pleurisy that develops as a result of a viral infection often resolves on its own. Whichever the case, the following home remedies are a handy and practical way to manage the symptoms of pleurisy. If you have any concerns about any of the remedies, feel free to consult your physician.

1. Heat Therapy:

Time Required: 30 Min
What You Need: Hot water in a basin and a clean towel. A hot bath to which olbas oil has been added is an excellent alternative.
Difficulty: Easy

Using heat therapy is one of the simplest ways to manage pleurisy. The heat from this remedy provides much-needed relief from the symptoms of the condition. Additionally, it eases breathing. Depending on the severity of the condition, it helps to apply the heat while simultaneously practicing deep breathing exercises. Prepare the heat pack using hot water and a clean towel. The other alternative involves taking a hot bath with the same mode of action. Olbas oil is added to the remedy to ease breathing and aid in the expulsion of sputum.

NOTE: If your pleurisy is accompanied by a fever, do not use heat therapy as a home remedy. This is because the increased external temperatures sustain, and may lead to severe complications as a result of the high fever. Instead, it is advisable to go for cold packs in order to lower the fever while provide relief from the pain. If there is no fever however, it is important to avoid using cold packs as these may lead to further congestion and make breathing more difficult.

Directions:

1. Place the clean towel in the hot water and soak for about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the hot pack to your chest and gently use it to massage.
3. Ensure that you take deep breathing exercises as you rub the hot pack on your chest. You may start with shallow breaths to ease the process.
4. Alternatively, add a few drops of olbas oil to your bath water and soak in it for half an hour to get relief from pleurisy.

2. Cayenne Pepper Drink:

Time Required: 15 Min
What You Need: 1 Teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 1 glass of hot water.
Difficulty: Easy

Cayenne pepper is a wonderful choice for the management of pleurisy using home remedies. This choice remedy not only gets rid of toxins from the body, it is also a potent anti-inflammatory. This goes a long way in reducing the pain linked to pleurisy. Additional benefits of using cayenne pepper include its ability to disintegrate mucus, aid in its expulsion as well as clear bacterial infections present. Simply prepare this remedy as indicated below to treat pleurisy at home.

Directions:

1. Take a teaspoon of cayenne pepper and place it in a glass.
2. Pour in the hot water and stir.
3. Allow to cool for a few minutes and drink. Use this remedy thrice daily.
4. Alternatively, go with adding cayenne pepper to your food at each meal for effective home treatment of pleurisy.

3. Raw Ginger:

Time Required: 30 Min
What You Need: Raw ginger root (1/2 inch is enough), 1 glass of water and 1 tablespoon of raw organic honey. You may need a clean piece of cloth, a string as well as pestle and mortar if you opt to extract the ginger juice.
Difficulty: Easy

Raw ginger is a popular option for the treatment of varied conditions, especially those that target and affect the respiratory system. This is not any different when it comes to the treatment of pleurisy. The raw ginger not only reduces the pain around the lungs, it also eases inhalation and exhalation. This particular remedy is also ideal as it breaks down mucus and helps in its effective removal. Honey is added for its antibacterial properties as well as its soothing effects on the respiratory system. Prepare ginger tea or extract the herb’s juice and drink for effective treatment of pleurisy.

Directions:

Ginger Tea

1. Peel the ginger and clean well to avoid introducing impurities.
2. Cut the ginger into small pieces and place in a pan.
3. Pour in the pan 1 glass of water and turn on the heat to boil.
4. Once boiled, turn off the heat and allow the ginger herb to steep for 5 minutes. This is done to allow the herb’s potent ingredients to seep into the water.
5. Sieve the mixture and allow to cool for a few minutes.
6. Drink this ginger tea at least thrice daily to treat pleurisy.

Ginger Juice

1. Peel the ginger then clean it well before using it to prepare the juice.
2. Chop the ginger into small pieces and transfer to a mortar.
3. Crush the ginger pieces until you have a paste-like substance.
4. Place the resulting ginger paste on a clean piece of cloth.
5. Tie both ends using a string and then tug the cloth in opposite directions.
6. Collect the juice in a glass and add to it honey.
7. Drink this mixture thrice daily until the symptoms of the pleurisy clear.

4. Amla :

Time Required: 10 Min
What You Need: 1 Tablespoon of dried amla powder and 1 glass of water.
Difficulty: Easy

One of the most reliable ways to treat pleurisy as well as reduce its recurrence, is to boost the body’s immune system. This is where amla comes in. Amla, a popular home remedy in the east, is effective in strengthening the body’s immune response. This is attributed to its high concentration of Vitamin C. Additionally, amla contains antioxidants that help clear the inflammation. Other benefits of using amla include its ability to decongest the chest, thus allowing the ease of breathing. For this remedy, you will need 1 tablespoon of dried amla.

Directions:

1. Place the amla powder in a glass and slowly add the water.
2. Stir and drink the mixture at least once daily.

5. Turmeric:

Time Required: 15 Min
What You Need: Turmeric powder, 1 glass of hot milk and 1 tablespoon of honey (optional).
Difficulty: Easy

Turmeric is a potent herbal remedy whose healing properties make it well suited for the home treatment of pleurisy. The herb has powerful expectorant properties that certainly aid in decongesting the chest. Additionally, turmeric helps reduce the inflammation present. It is believed that turmeric also has excellent anti-viral properties that make it ideal for cases where the pleurisy is the result of a viral infection. Milk is added to this remedy because it boosts the body’s immune system, therefore allowing it to mount a better immune response against the causative infections.

Directions:

1. Simply add the turmeric powder to the milk and stir.
2. You may include honey in this remedy for its healing properties.
3. Take this remedy thrice daily.

6. Use a Humidifier:

Time Required: Used overnight or as often as is required.
What You Need: A humidifier.
Difficulty: Easy

The purpose of a humidifier, just as the name suggests, is to add humidity to the atmosphere. This is key for anyone suffering from pleurisy. When the air is dry, it causes sputum to thicken, making it more difficult to expel. This further complicates the expulsion of mucus, and worsens the inflammation of the pleura. The catch in using this to treat the condition is to ensure that the humidifier is cleaned on a regular basis. Failure to do so leads to the accumulation of dirt and bacteria so that when turned on, causes these to circulate in the air. This actually makes the symptoms of pleurisy more severe.

Directions:

1. Use the humidifier at your preferred time, although it’s use is most effective overnight as this is when the pain tends to worsen.
2. Remember to clean the humidifier on a regular basis depending on the usage.

7. Get Adequate Rest:

Time Required: Varies
What You Need: A comfortable and quiet place to rest.
Difficulty: Easy

It goes without saying that the discomfort caused by pleurisy is enough to cause you to get rest. This allows your body to recuperate and heal faster. The key is to find a position that eases the discomfort and use it for a while. Even after the condition has started improving, take caution in your positions of rest to avoid going overboard.

Directions:

1. Get a quiet place to lay and rest, ensuring you remain in a comfortable position.

8. Tips to Help You With The Use of Remedies For The Treatment of Pleurisy:

1. Avoid lifting heavy weights as this will place a strain on your chest and cause sharp pains that intensify when the pleura is inflamed.
2. Avoid irritants that cause chest congestion to avoid delaying the recovery period. These include smoke, dust and allergens among others.
3. Massage the chest area as you take any of the aforementioned home remedies.

Pleurisy is a treatable condition whose symptoms manifest in chest pains and a dry cough. Since it may be difficult to know the causative agent at a glance, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Home remedies are recommended for use alongside medication for speedy recovery. In case of any doubts or complications, get in touch with your physician.

A shock out of the blue — ReBoot Health

Last week I was walking down the road, taking a parcel to the post office, when all of a sudden, out of the blue, I was struck by a blinding flash of pain – right through my chest towards where I always think my heart must be. It was excruciating – agony so terrible that I couldn’t move one foot in front of the other, but stood rooted to the pavement, frozen. The first dagger-like stab was followed by another, and then another, equally as severe.

It seemed so odd. I remembered that scene from the Godfather where Vito Corleone is struck down in the vegetable patch, and topples lifeless to the ground. And in amidst the confusion and the pain, with my practical brain instructing me to get to A&E as fast as possible, an even more forceful voice was saying ‘but you can’t be having a heart attack – your bloods are fine. It’s simply not possible…’ I staggered into a passing taxi (thank goodness I wasn’t in a vegetable patch in Sicily but fairly close instead to the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital!) and arrived at Emergency a few minutes later. Apart from the stabbing knives that kept up their attacks unrelentingly, I could hardly draw a single breath now without the aggressive, spiteful knitting needles piercing my breast. Terrifying was the only word I can think of to describe it.

And all I can say, is thank goodness for the NHS. Their management and finances may be in dire trouble, but every single one of the staff that came my way – from the porter who pushed the wheelchair, the nurse who transferred me to a cubicle and attached 12 electrodes to just about everywhere, the various phlebotomists who drew bloods, the nurses in charge of the drugs who hooked me up to intravenous pain killers and the various doctors who came in and out – every single one was smiling and reassuring, and working as fast as they could. It was nothing short of genius. There was a kind volunteer who brought me a cup of tea when the painkillers finally kicked in and another who just dropped by to see what he could do. By then my husband had arrived to hold my hand and as the waves of pain reduced slightly, and they finished running tests for just about everything, they pronounced their verdict.

They had a very clear picture finally of what it wasn’t. It wasn’t, as the small internal voice had argued, a heart attack; it wasn’t an aneurism or a ripped muscle; or any disease of the lung. It wasn’t cancer. They concluded instead that it was viral pleurisy and although not a cause for serious alarm, was unpleasant enough for them to recommend bed rest for two weeks or more, which is how long they felt it would take to clear up.

What is Pleurisy?

Your lungs are covered in a thin, double-layered membrane that also lines the inside of your chest. When these get inflamed, they can rub against each other causing pain.

There seem to be two different sorts of pleurisy. Wet pleurisy and dry pleurisy. Wet is what happens when excess fluid builds up between the pleural layers. If you have pneumonia, for instance, a tube is sometimes inserted into your chest to drain the fluid off and prevent breathing difficulties.

Pleurisy can be triggered by bacteria, in which case you will be given antibiotics to calm the chest pains and continual all-encompassing ache in your lungs. Or it can be triggered by a virus, where it’s often accompanied by a high temperature, sore throat, muscle and joint aches and pains and a headache. There really is not much you can do for this one except retreat to bed and pray for it to pass. Side effects include a rapidly beating heart, and an inability to breathe. Oxygen levels in your blood drop rapidly.

In either case, the pain management treatment is paracetamol – which quite honestly doesn’t really work. Pleurisy, in my experience, is not at all nice.

Why do you get it?

Normally it’s the result of an attack by either a virus or bacteria on your lungs. People who suffer from lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may be vulnerable, or if you have been diagnosed with tuberculosis, sickle cell anaemia or pancreatitis, your odds are higher. Likewise if you have had recent heart or lung surgery or have had a fungal or parasite problem.

Why it picked me remains a mystery – none of those possible causes apply. I can only think that the pleurisy goblin (if there is such a thing!) took his chances, and felled me, fair and square.

I retired to my bed. I could hardly walk, talk or breathe, and I slept for two days without stopping. I had been looking forward to a fun weekend, spending Saturday at the Wild and Well Festival in Bristol, where I was meant to be talking alongside four doctors on the Evolving Medicines panel. On the Sunday I was having lunch with a friend from Tanzania. Tragically, that too went out of the window, and I had to let them all down at short notice.

My pleurisy protocol

Uncomfortable though the pain was, the thought of up to two weeks in bed was a daunting one. I am hardly ever ill and the frustration of lying helpless was too much for me. So I determined to attempt to speed up my recovery time. Complementary medicine must have a better, faster way. And I found it…

Homeopathy for pleurisy

This was my first port of call. I knew that Byronia is the standard remedy for pleurisy, but when I delved deeper there also seemed to be other homeopathic remedies, depending on your symptoms. You usually only need one at a time, specifically chosen to suit whatever is going on…

Aconite is only useful when pleurisy first strikes, when there are chills, heat, restlessness and anxiety, but before there is any sign of fluid build-up.

Apis is for if you have a sharp, stitching pain through your left lung to the back, that gets worse lying on your back and from the smallest movement. Usually this would be taken following on from either Aconite or Bryonia.

Arnica is for pleurisy caused by an external injury, where pain and bleeding are present.

Arsenicum. This is for when you have strong symptoms and is a quick acting remedy for wet pleurisy with large quantities of fluid and painful asthmatic breathing.

Asclepias tuberosa taken 15 drops in water hourly is a general pleurisy remedy. Good for dry hacking cough; pains relieved when you bend forward.

Belladonna can be used when the pain becomes worse when lying on the sore side, and when there is a high fever with a very flushed face.

Bryonia is for when you have violent pains in the side of your ribs and when the pain gets worse from the slightest movement. If the pain gets better if you lie on the sore side of your chest or ribs then Bryonia is often a good remedy to use. It also dries up mucus and fluid.

Cantharis can be used when there is not much fever, but there is fluid in the lungs. Especially when you struggle breathing, feel faint, weak and sweaty.

Hepar sulph is for when the condition has become chronic, with the formation of pus. Also an excellent remedy in pleurisy complicated by bronchitis.

Ranunculus Bulbosus for sharp, stitching pains in the chest, worse on the right side.

Stannum for knife-like pains in the left armpit.

Sulphur can be used after fluid has developed, when the fluid build-up persists and when there are sharp pains which make all movement very painful.

Fast progress…

It sounded like Byronia for me, but I called a friend who is a homeopath to discuss the precise dosage. I had presumed it would be 30c, which seems to be a standard dose, but she recommended 200c instead. My lovely husband went off to Ainsworth’s homeopathic chemist and came home with it for me on the Saturday. I had only been breathing using around 10% of my lung capacity after the attack, leaving my blood low in oxygen. By the end of the first homeopathy day, taking a single pillule 3 times a day, my breathing had improved to around 50% lung capacity. The following day, by the evening, it was at 70%.

Acupuncture

Pleurisy leaves you with a weakness in the lungs, and an acupuncture session or two was definitely called for to strengthen them. The problem was that on day one I could quite literally not get out of bed, and the thought of lifting my head off my pillows made my head spin. Acupressure however, is the next best thing, and I started firmly massaging the correct points. I set myself the task of a few minutes twice a day. Not too onerous and at least I felt I was doing something positive. It seemed to release the pain and the stabbing subsided to the extent that I could dispense with my paracetamol and sleep undisturbed by the pain throughout the night.

And last but not least, kinesiology…

By the Monday morning, I was hugely better, but there was still a feeling of congestion in the lower part of my lungs. Kinesiology was the last on my ‘Get better quickly’ list. It’s the Heineken of therapies, reaching all the parts that other therapies can’t quite get to. Brilliant at sorting things that are not obviously easy to sort. The skilful Franky Kossy did one muscle testing session and an hour’s worth of ‘corrections’ and I was back to breathing perfection.

A matter of days rather than weeks – and all thanks to the combination of natural remedies and the remarkable NHS. A perfect partnership.

Written by health advocate Sara Davenport, founder of one of the UK’s leading breast cancer charities, Breast Cancer Haven. With over twenty years’ experience in holistic health, Sara’s digital dose of wellness teaches you to listen to your body, tweak your lifestyle and improve your health. 

Sign up to our free newsletter for fortnightly holistic health tips and a regular dose of get-well advice. SUBSCRIBE NOW!

HOW TO HELP YOURSELF WITH FOLK REMEDIES

Inflammation of the pleura, the smooth serous membrane surrounding the lungs, is called pleurisy. The cause of pleurisy can be a chest injury, infection, tumor process, allergic reactions. Most often, pleurisy is a complication of pneumonia, infectious diseases, such as pneumonia. Unfortunately, pleurisy pesters people not only in the cold season, but also in summer, due to drafts, hypothermia during bathing, etc.

What are pleurisy

Pleurisy is divided into dry, exudative (exudative) and purulent. With dry pleurisy, the pleura thickens, it becomes uneven. With effusion – fluid accumulates in the pleural cavity, which compresses the lungs. With purulent – the fluid in the pleura contains pus. With pleurisy during breathing, pain occurs due to the friction of the rough sheets of the pleura against each other. There may also be shortness of breath, fever, cough, weakness, breathing is frequent and shallow.
With dry pleurisy, pain may disappear with the accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity, which separates the sheets of the lungs from each other. The patient usually lies on the affected side, as this reduces the friction of the pleural sheets against each other, and the pain subsides. Only after X-ray examination, analysis of pleural fluid, etc. disease can be established. Pleurisy causes the formation of adhesions, which compresses the lungs and leads to respiratory failure and, consequently, to a deterioration in the quality of human life. Pleurisy and effusion in the pleural cavity are usually a complication of some other disease, most often very serious, therefore, when the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to diagnose its cause and further treatment.

General wellness methods: compresses, juices, herbs

The specific cause of pleurisy determines the nature of the treatment, which may include antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents. Getting rid of pleurisy I recommend starting with the simplest: a compress on a sore spot from a sponge dipped in hot water. In this case, salt or sea water is especially effective. Traditional in the treatment of all types of pleurisy, including dry, at the initial stage is the use of various juices and special compresses with rubbing and bandaging.
The very first remedy is onion juice. It is mixed with honey equally. And take 1 tbsp. l. the resulting mixture 3 times a day. This agent exhibits antimicrobial activity. Instead of onion juice, you can take the juice of black radish .. Take in the same way a quarter cup of pulp and cherry juice.
The following treatment method helps with pleurisy. Take 200 g of chopped horseradish root and juice squeezed from four lemons. Use 0. 5 tsp. in the morning on an empty stomach and at night when you go to bed. Such a medicine will not corrode the gallbladder, kidneys, mucous membrane of the digestive tract. But after taking the medicine, the mucus will begin to dissolve.
Take herbs at the same time. Infusion of cudweed grass, mint leaves, coltsfoot, licorice roots and elecampane take 0.3 cups 3 times a day. For the treatment of pleurisy, infusions are also prepared from sage leaves, anise fruits, marshmallow roots, pine buds, horsetail grass, highlander. Dragees are also made from butter, honey, almonds and nettles (4:4:1:1), cooling the resulting mixture in the refrigerator.

At the first symptoms of the disease, compresses are effective not only with warm salt or sea water, but also with various oils. So, they help in the treatment of rubbing camphor oil with added lavender oil (10: 1) into the sore side. After this procedure, a warm compress is placed and a tight bandage is applied. You can rub warm olive oil. A bandage with mustard also has a warming and distracting effect, in addition, it will relieve pain.

After 10 days of treatment of the disease, I recommend making dragees from equal amounts of honey and butter, add almonds and nettle seeds at the rate of 1 part of almonds and nettles to 4 parts of honey and butter. Dragee cool and suck 3-4 times a day. When the disease clearly subsides, you can use the banks.
I also want to share the method of treating any kind of pleurisy, which was known to grandfather Korcan. You need crushed Adam’s root. The plant must be at least three years old. Put it on compress paper, put the resulting composition on gauze and apply, like a compress, to the stomach area. There should be small holes in the compress paper. Put cotton wool on top of the compress and wrap it with a warm cloth. The cotton wool will become damp as the vapors come out and the person sweats. This treatment should be carried out after the fluid has been drained so that exudate does not accumulate. After three procedures, breathing should be heard.

Exudative pleurisy

Patients diagnosed with “exudative pleurisy”, as a rule, are subject to hospitalization to establish the diagnosis of the underlying disease and appropriate treatment. Just as with dry pleurisy, the main attention should be paid to the pathogenetic therapy of the process complicated by pleurisy (pneumonia, tuberculosis, collagenosis, etc.). Depending on the general condition of patients, bed or semi-bed rest is prescribed, as well as a diet rich enough in vitamins and proteins with restriction of fluid, salts and carbohydrates.
Treatment also starts with home remedies. It is necessary to take 100 g of May honey, melt the internal pork fat, aloe leaves (not younger than five years old), chop and remove the thorns. Add sugar and cocoa to these ingredients. Transfer the composition to a bowl of clay and heat in a water bath, over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. You should get a homogeneous mass. After the mass has cooled, take it 1 tbsp. l. three times a day for 2 months. Then you need to take a break and repeat the course of treatment again. You need to be treated in this way three times during the year. The composition is stored in the refrigerator.
In my practice, in the treatment of exudative pleurisy, a recipe based on aloe juice has proven itself well. Take 0.5 cups of aloe juice, linden honey, vegetable oil, 75 g of birch buds, 1 cup of heart-shaped linden flowers. Birch buds and lime blossom pour 2 cups of boiled water, heat in a water bath for 20 minutes, leave for 2 hours. Add honey and aloe juice to the resulting infusion. Heat in a water bath for 10 minutes, cool and add vegetable oil. Take 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day before meals.
Then move on to the combination of juices and herbs. Mix 1 glass of linden honey, aloe leaf juice, infusion on birch buds and linden flowers, heat for 5 minutes in a water bath, after cooling add 1 glass of oil, preferably olive oil. The tool is taken in 2 tbsp. l. before meals 3 times a day.

The intake is alternated (every other day) with the following combination of juices and herbs: aloe (juice), warty birch (buds), small-leaved linden (flowers), linden honey, olive oil, boiled water.
Preparation: birch buds (150 g) and lime blossom (50 g) are poured with 2 cups of boiled water, heated in a water bath for 15 minutes, infused for 30 minutes, filtered. Honey (1 glass) and aloe juice (1 glass) are added to the resulting infusion, everything is heated in a water bath for 5 minutes, cooled, poured into two bottles, equally adding Provencal oil (1 glass) to each. Stored in the refrigerator. Take 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day before meals. The mixture is shaken before use.
If the disease is accompanied by blackout in the lungs, bronchitis, take 1 tbsp. l. honey, internal pork fat and chicken egg yolk. Mix all ingredients and combine with a glass of milk. It must be boiled. Drink everything at once. This treatment is performed at bedtime and in the morning before leaving the house.
I also advise you to alternate the intake with a more concentrated badger fat. To do this, take 250 g of badger fat and aloe leaf juice (they need to be crushed and cleaned of thorns). Mix the two ingredients and add 1 cup of honey. Put the composition in the oven for 20 minutes, then strain and discard the raw materials. The composition is used for 1.5 tbsp. l. three times a day half an hour before meals.
A tincture of onion in wine helps a lot with such complications of pleurisy. Take 0.5 kg of onion, peel and chop it, pour 0.75 l of dry white grape wine, mix the composition with 150 g of light honey. Insist for 8 days, shaking occasionally. Then strain and consume daily 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day before meals.
At the same time, I also advise you to additionally make a compress on your back using cottage cheese. Put cottage cheese for 3 hours three times a day. After finishing the procedures with a compress, you must take a bath. After the bath, drink a third of a glass of such a drink. Take 1 cup of elecampane roots, also pine needles or eucalyptus leaves, tricolor violet grass, pre-chopped, tie gauze into a knot and tie something heavy to it. Put in a jar with a volume of 3 liters, cover with 1 glass of sugar, put 1 tsp. sour cream and fill to the top of the jar with water. Tie the jar with gauze, which must first be folded in a couple of layers. Leave the composition to infuse for 14 days in a warm place where there is no access to sunlight. Then strain the infusion and take it warm. The composition itself must be stored in a cool place.

Possible complications

Pleurisy can lead to irreversible respiratory diseases. But the most dangerous are complications in acute purulent pleurisy, that is, acute purulent inflammation of the pleura. In the vast majority of cases, it is a secondary disease, a complication of purulent lesions of various organs. Treatment of purulent pleurisy includes antibiotic therapy and punctures, during which the pus is pumped out and broad-spectrum antibiotics are injected into the pleural cavity with a preliminary determination of the sensitivity of the flora. The task is to prevent the development of infection by removing pus and creating favorable conditions for tissue repair.
In case of a purulent disease, it is necessary to take 2 parts of anise fruit, marshmallow root, licorice root, 1 part of pine buds and sage leaf. 1 st. l. brew the mixture in 1 cup boiling water, close tightly and leave for 5 hours, strain and take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day.
A complex composition of herbs is also quite suitable. Take 2 parts of coltsfoot leaves, 1 part of elecampane root, peppermint leaves, licorice root, cudweed grass. Infusion: 1 tbsp. l. mix pour 1 cup boiling water, leave for 5 hours and take 0.5 cup 3 times a day before meals.
If the disease is accompanied by a dry cough, I recommend preparing a herbal collection: coltsfoot (leaves) – 2 parts, licorice naked (root), marsh cudweed (grass), high elecampane (root), peppermint (leaves) – 1 each parts. Insist night. Take 0.5 cup 3 times a day before meals. During the recovery period, I recommend taking general strengthening agents in combination with breathing exercises. These are such means as Aralia Manchurian and Eleutherococcus. Aralia Manchurian (tincture) is taken 40 drops 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. Eleutherococcus (extract) – 20 drops 3 times a day, also 30 minutes before meals.

Pleurisy as a result of serious diseases

The most difficult to treat, of course, is pleurisy of tuberculous etiology. With such pleurisy, I recommend herbal collection: licorice naked (root), elecampane high (root), cudweed swamp (grass) – 1 part each, horsetail (grass), calendula officinalis (flowers), warty birch (buds) – 2 parts each . Infusion take 0.5 cup 3 times a day before meals.
It is advisable to combine fruits and roots. For example, take two equal shares of anise fruits, marshmallow roots and licorice. All ingredients are mixed. Take 1 tbsp. l. mixture and pour into a container. A little boiling water is poured into it and insisted for about five hours. After that, strain through gauze and use 1 spoon 4-5 times a day.
A good remedy for the treatment of pleurisy with tuberculous etiology is a tincture of potato flowers. Collect potato flowers during flowering, dry in a dark, well-ventilated place. Next 1 tbsp. l. crushed flowers pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, then insist in a thermos for 3 hours. Strain and squeeze the juice from the flowers. Store in glass containers. Take the infusion 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals, approximately 150 ml each. The course of admission is 2 weeks, then 1 week break and again 2 weeks of admission, and so on for 6 months.
By the way, to relieve the pain of pleurisy, I recommend putting a bandage with mustard on the sore spot.
Now about something very important! With pleurisy, which sometimes, unfortunately, complicates lung cancer, I recommend plantain leaves along with seeds for treatment. They contain mucus, bitterness, carotene, vitamin C, vitamin K, a lot of potassium, resins, proteins, oleic and citric acids, saponins, sterols, aukubin glycoside, invertin enzymes and tannins, emulsions, alkaloids, essential oil, chlorophyll, phytoncides , flavonoids, a lot of carbohydrate mannitol, sorbitol. Seeds contain up to 44% mucus, up to 20% fatty oil, carbohydrate, oleic acid, saponins, steroids. They prevent both the primary occurrence of cancer (prevention) and metastasis (mainly for carcinomas). They are a powerful means of restoring immunity, impaired both during the course of the disease and as a result of chemotherapy. Protecting the epithelium of the alveoli with its healing mucus, they prevent the destruction of the surfactant, restore the function of the ciliated epithelium of the bronchi, thin the viscous sputum and contribute to its rapid expulsion. Stop pulmonary bleeding and increase hemoglobin levels. They kill pathogenic flora in the respiratory tract, are effective even against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
1 st. l. fresh or dry plantain leaves pour 1 cup boiling water, leave for 2 hours, strain. Take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day 20 minutes before meals. Or a mixture of crushed fresh leaves with an equal amount of honey or sugar, leave for 4 hours in a sealed container in a warm place. Take 1 tbsp. l. 4 times a day with clean water, 20 minutes before meals.
I also advise in this case to take a course of rehabilitation with celandine, licorice and cocklebur. In case of lung tumors, celandine (a close relative of the yellow poppy family) is used as a cough suppressant. You can also count on the immunomodulatory effect of the plant as part of the collection. The plant is poisonous, overdose is unacceptable! Infusion of celandine: 1 tbsp. l. dry grass pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, insist 2 hours. Take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day.
Licorice naked. Licorice root increases the secretion of the epithelium of the respiratory tract, improves the active properties of the lungs and stimulates the function of the cilia of the epithelium. In addition, licorice thins phlegm, making it easier to expectorate. It is important that licorice has antimicrobial and antiviral effects. The antitumor activity of licorice is associated with the presence of coumarins. Infusion of licorice: place 10 g of crushed root in an enamel bowl, pour 1 cup of hot water, heat in a boiling water bath under a tight lid for 20 minutes, leave for 40 minutes, strain, squeeze out the remainder, bring boiled water to the original volume. Take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day for 10 days.
Cocklebur (common and prickly) – a plant with a pronounced commitment to the respiratory system and everything that is next to it. It contains a fair amount of iodine and immunomodulators. This determines the individual properties of the plant. Decoction: 1 tbsp. l. dry grass pour 1 cup boiling water, boil for 10 minutes on low heat, leave for 2 hours. Take 0.5 cup 3 times a day. I also recommend doing inhalations: take a metal kettle, heat it empty on the stove and, leaving it on the smallest fire, pour a pinch of cocklebur seeds on the bottom. Wrap the spout of the teapot with a clean cloth folded in several layers. Inhale smoke from the nose. After inhaling, hold your breath for 10 seconds and exhale

Yogic breathing exercises

For the final recovery, I also recommend placing banks. And during the period of remission, do therapeutic exercises. For example: first do yoga breathing exercises 5-6 times. Inhale and exhale through the nose.
I. p. – standing, feet shoulder-width apart, arms bent, hands at the back of the head. Turns of the body to the side. Do 4 – 5 times. The pace is average, breathing is arbitrary.
I. p. – standing, feet shoulder-width apart, arms down. Bending the arms with touching the shoulders, straightening the arms to the sides, bending the arms with the fingers touching the shoulders. Return to i. n. Run 3-4 times. Breathing is arbitrary, inhale and exhale through the nose, the pace is average.
I. p. – the same. Body tilts to the side. Repeat 4-6 times. The pace is average.
I. p. – the same. On inspiration, raise your hands up, on exhalation, lower them, followed by pressure on the chest in the area of ​​the diaphragm. Do 5 – 6 times. The pace is medium, exhale through the nose, long.
I. p. – standing, legs together, hands on the belt. Leading the straightened leg back with simultaneous abduction of the elbows back, return to and. n. Repeat 3-4 times. Breathing is arbitrary.
I. p. – standing, feet shoulder-width apart, gymnastic stick behind the back. Tilt the torso forward with the stick up – exhale. Return to i. p. – inhale. Do 4 – 6 times. Exhale vigorously.
I. p. – standing, legs together, arms lowered. Alternate abduction of the legs back on the toe while raising the opposite arm forward. Repeat 3-4 times. The pace is average.
I. p. – standing, legs together, arms along the body. Walking for 1 min. The pace is slow.
I. p. – sitting on a chair. Inflating rubber toys. Attention! Avoid pain when straining, tachycardia, shortness of breath. A set of exercises should be performed at least 3-4 times a day, individual exercises that promote resorption of exudate, tension of the pleura, straightening the affected lung and increasing its ventilation, increasing diaphragm mobility, especially on the diseased side, up to 10 times a day.
In the treatment of pleurisy of tuberculous etiology, much attention is also paid to recipes using animal fat, described above.
As an additional therapy in the treatment of pleurisy, you can use onion, garlic, radish – they have antibacterial properties (if the cause of pleurisy is infectious), as well as fees consisting of the following components: horsetail, aloe, birch buds, coltsfoot, mint , elecampane, licorice, pine buds, sage (in addition to antimicrobial, they also have a tonic, antipyretic, analgesic and other beneficial effects).
Of course, the treatment of pleurisy must be comprehensive and include an impact on the cause that caused it. If the pleural effusion is of a non-inflammatory nature, then the treatment should, first of all, be aimed at restoring cardiac activity, the function of the liver, kidneys, endocrine glands, and the like. In patients with inflammatory pleurisy, but aseptic process, treatment is aimed at eliminating allergic, autoimmune and other processes. Infectious pleurisy is treated with antibiotics.
Detoxification therapy (saline, glucose) is also indicated for such patients. Local treatment is also possible in the form of evacuation of the contents by introducing a drainage tube, sanitation of the pleural cavity and the introduction of antiseptic and antibacterial, as well as fibrinolytic drugs, and subsequent drainage of the purulent cavity and other methods, depending on the severity.

Nutrition is an integral part of the recovery of the body

A health-improving diet for pleurisy is aimed at reducing the inflammatory process, lowering increased reactivity. This is ensured by the restriction of carbohydrates (200-250 g), salt (up to 3-5 g), an increase in the content of calcium salts in the diet (up to 5 g) per day. It is recommended to limit the amount of liquid to 500-700 ml. It is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of vitamins, especially vitamin A (liver, fish, egg yolk, milk, butter, cheese, boiled carrots, apricots, rose hips, sea buckthorn), vitamin P (citrus fruits, black currants, buckwheat, cherries, plums), vitamin D (brewer’s yeast, liver, kidneys). The liver stewed in sour cream is nutritious: chopped liver is salted, rolled in flour, fried until half cooked (5-10 minutes), poured with sour cream and stewed for 15-20 minutes (600 g of liver, 2 cups of sour cream sauce).
You can cook a casserole with veal kidneys: cut veal and kidneys into cubes, fry, put in a saucepan, add fried onions and carrots, salt, broth and simmer. Separately, knead the dough, adding salt, eggs, melted fat to the flour. Put the finished dough in the refrigerator for half an hour, grease the form with fat and fill 2/3 of the volume with dough, put the rest of the dough on the cooled mass. Top the dough with yolk and put in the oven for 20-30 minutes (3 veal kidneys, 500 g of veal, a glass of broth, 100 g of fat, 2 onions, 1 carrot; for the dough: 1 cup flour, 2 tablespoons fat, 2 eggs). It is recommended to use carrot salads, cheese casseroles, milk soups. Dishes that cause thirst (salts, smoked meats, canned food) should be excluded from the diet.
Attention! After the subsidence of acute phenomena in the period of resorption of the exudate, it is advisable to take measures aimed at limiting the formation of adhesions and restoring lung function (breathing exercises, manual and vibration massage, ultrasound). Treatment of the pleura should be early, targeted and intense enough to achieve a quick effect.
Prevention of pleurisy consists primarily in the prevention, as well as the timely and correct treatment of diseases that may be complicated by the inflammatory process in the pleura. The basis for the prevention of purulent pleurisy is the early recognition and evacuation of accumulations of blood, air and exudate from the pleural cavity, which contribute to suppuration.

Vyacheslav VARNAVSKY,
doctor, phytotherapist.

Treating pleurisy at home: effective methods and tips

Contents

• 1 7 ways to treat pleurisy at home: proven recipes and tips
  • 1.1 Treating pleurisy at home: effective methods and tips
    90 092 1.1.1 What is pleurisy?
    • 1.1.2 Symptoms of pleurisy
    • 1.1.3 Home treatment for pleurisy
    • 1.1.4 When to seek medical help?
  • 1.2 Pleurisy: causes, symptoms, effects
  • 1. 3 Effective home remedies for pleurisy:
    • 1.3.1 1. Diet and regimen:
    • 1.3.2 2. Use of heat:

    9 0092 1.3.3 3 Inhalation:

    • 1.3.4 4. Change in body position:
  • 1.4 Diet in the treatment of pleurisy
    • 1.4.1 Limiting the intake of animal fats
    • 1.4.2 Consumption of low-fat dairy products 900 97
    • 1.4.3 Fruit and vegetable consumption
    • 1.4.4 Smoking and alcohol cessation
  • .5.2 Antimicrobials
  • 1.5.3 Diuretics
  • 1.5.4 Folk remedies
• 1.6 Ways to relieve pain in pleurisy
• 1.7 Recovery of the body after treatment of pleurisy at home
• 1.8 Additional remedies to speed up the treatment of pleurisy at home
• 1.9 Treatment of pleurisy at home: folk remedies
• 1.10 Basic recommendations for the treatment of pleurisy at home
  • 1.10.1 Complete rest
  • 1.10.1. 10.2 Moderate physical activity
  • 1.10.3 Diet
  • 1. 10.4 Drink plenty of water
  • 1.10.5 Maintain good hygiene
• 1.11 How can I prevent pleurisy from coming back?
• 1.12 When to see a doctor for pleurisy
• 1.13 Related videos:
• 1.14 Q&A:
  • • 1.14.0.1 What is pleurisy?
    • 1.14.0.2 What treatments for pleurisy can be used at home?
    • 1.14.0.3 What role does proper breathing play in the treatment of pleurisy at home?
    • 1.14.0.4 Can folk remedies be used to treat pleurisy at home?
    • 1.14.0.5 Is there a prophylaxis for pleurisy?
    • 1.14.0.6 What measures should be taken in case of exacerbation of pleurisy at home?

Learn how to effectively treat pleurisy at home with simple remedies and tips. Overcome symptoms and prevent complications without going to the hospital.

Pleurisy is a disease in which the pleura, that is, the membranes of the lungs, are inflamed, this can occur both as a result of diseases and as a result of injury. Pleurisy treatment is carried out by doctors and must necessarily take place under their supervision, but in addition to the main course of treatment, home methods can also be used.

The article will present effective methods of treating pleurisy at home, which will help relieve pain and eliminate the main symptoms of the disease. It is important to understand that home treatment cannot replace a professional medical course, but using it as a complementary therapy can speed up the healing process.

The purpose of the article is to learn about which methods of treating pleurisy can be used at home without harm to health, as well as to get recommendations on how to use each of them to achieve maximum effect.

Home treatment for pleurisy: effective methods and tips

What is pleurisy?

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura, that is, the membrane that covers the surface of the lungs and the inner surface of the chest wall. This condition can be caused by a variety of causes, including infections, injuries, cancer, and other diseases.

Symptoms of pleurisy

Symptoms of pleurisy may include chest pain when breathing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest burning and fever. These symptoms may be mild or severe, depending on the severity of the disease.

Home treatment for pleurisy

Home treatment for pleurisy depends on its cause and severity. However, some methods can help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery:

• Rest: It is important to reduce physical activity and get plenty of rest.
• Heat: Using warm compresses on the chest can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Humidification: Using a humidifier can make breathing easier and relieve coughs.
• Drinking regimen: it is worth increasing the amount of fluid you drink to help clear mucus and other substances from your lungs.
• Medicines: Depending on the cause of pleurisy, antibiotics, analgesics and other medicines may be prescribed.

When to seek medical help?

If the condition worsens or severe chest pain occurs, seek immediate medical attention. You should also see a doctor if symptoms do not improve after a few days of home treatment.

Pleurisy: causes, symptoms, consequences

Pleurisy – inflammation of the pleura, the membrane that covers the lungs and forms the walls of the chest cavity. This disease can occur both independently and as a complication of another disease.

The causes of pleurisy can be many: infectious and viral diseases, chest wounds, malignant neoplasms, allergic reactions, connective tissue disease and others.

Symptoms of pleurisy are manifested as pain in the chest cavity, aggravated by movement, coughing, breathing, turning the body. Shortness of breath, fever, general weakness, loss of appetite may also be observed.

The consequences of pleurisy can be serious: the spread of infection to other organs, the development of pneumonia, the closure of pulmonary vessels, the development of hydrothorax and other complications. Therefore, it is necessary to immediately seek medical help at the first symptoms of pleurisy.

Effective methods of treating pleurisy at home:

1. Regimen and diet:

One of the main methods of treating pleurisy is to follow a strict regimen and diet. Heavy physical activity should be avoided and salty, fatty, and fried foods should be limited, as these can aggravate the symptoms of pleurisy.

2. Using heat:

Heat therapy can help relieve chest pain. To do this, you can use heating pads or warm compresses. It is important not to overheat or apply heat directly to the skin.

3. Inhalations:

Inhalations using essential oils or special solutions can help reduce inflammation and symptoms of pleurisy.

4. Changing body position:

Changing body position can help reduce pressure on the lungs and relieve pain. For example, lie on your healthy side or use a pillow to support your affected side.

Pleurisy diet

Restriction of animal fats

In case of pleurisy, it is recommended to limit the intake of animal fats such as butter, cream, etc. They can cause an increase in cholesterol levels and disruption of fat metabolism in the body, which can increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

Low-fat dairy products

In the treatment of pleurisy, it is recommended to consume low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, yogurt, cottage cheese and kefir. They contain important micronutrients, such as calcium and protein, which are essential for maintaining health.

Vegetable and fruit intake

In the treatment of pleurisy, increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits such as apples, pears, citrus fruits, bananas, and vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, beets, etc. These foods contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help boost the immune system and protect the body from harmful effects.

Smoking and alcohol cessation

When treating pleurisy, it is recommended to completely stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Nicotine and alcohol have a negative impact on health, increase the risk of developing diseases, cause disorders in the cardiovascular system, liver and kidneys.

1. Eat fruits and vegetables
2. Avoid animal fats
3. Eat low-fat dairy products
4. Avoid smoking and alcohol

Home remedies for pleurisy

90 205 Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

To the treatment of pleurisy at home non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, nimesulide can be used. They eliminate pain, reduce fever and reduce inflammation in the lungs and pleura.

Antimicrobials

Advanced pleurisy due to bacterial infection requires antimicrobials. Cephalosporins, penicillins, and macrolides are the three main groups of antibiotics that are used to treat pleurisy at home. However, it is very important not to stop taking antibiotics, even if the symptoms have disappeared, as this can lead to a recurrence of the disease.

Diuretics

If pleurisy is caused by fluid retention, diuretics may help reduce swelling and expel excess fluid. However, diuretics should only be used on the advice of a doctor, as their misuse can cause side effects and worsen health conditions.

Folk remedies

You can also use folk remedies to treat pleurisy at home. For example, wraps with cabbage leaves, herbal infusions with antibacterial properties, compresses with honey and vegetable oil. However, before using any folk remedy, be sure to consult your doctor.

Pleurisy Pain Management

Pleurisy is a lung disease that causes severe chest pain. To reduce pain, you can apply several methods:

• Take analgesics: Strong analgesics include morphine and analogues. They can be effective in dealing with severe pain, however, they are not recommended for use without a doctor’s prescription.
• Draw attention to alternative methods: Many patients experience pain relief when alternative methods are used. For example, acupuncture or massage, which can improve blood circulation in the body.
• Apply warm compresses: To relieve pain, many patients use warm compresses applied to the sternum. They can reduce pain, increase blood supply to tissues, and speed up healing.
• Reduce the load on the sternum: In case of pleurisy, it is necessary to limit the movement of the sternum. It is recommended to reduce the load on the sternum to avoid possible complications.

When choosing a method to reduce pain, you should contact your doctor and consult with him. Independent attempts to relieve pain can lead to undesirable consequences and worsen the condition of pleurisy.

Rehabilitation of the body after treatment of pleurisy at home

Treatment of pleurisy is a lengthy process that heavily burdens the body. Therefore, after you managed to defeat this dangerous disease at home, you need to not only monitor your health, but also take a number of measures to speed up recovery.

One of the important aspects of recovery after pleurisy is breathing exercises. This will help strengthen the muscles of the lungs, improve the functioning of the respiratory system and speed up blood circulation. To do this, you can use special exercises, for example, with a balloon.

It is also recommended to pay attention to a calm lifestyle, avoid stressful situations and monitor your emotional state. Regularly carry out procedures that strengthen the nervous system and help to cope with external factors, such as massage or yoga.

In addition, we must not forget about regular medical examinations in order to monitor the condition of the body and promptly identify possible complications after pleurisy.

• Proper nutrition and vitamin products
• Breathing exercises and exercises
• Calm lifestyle and care for the nervous system
• Regular medical check-ups to control the body

Additional remedies to speed up the process of treating pleurisy at home

Regular compresses with honey and soda are a great extra remedy for the treatment of pleurisy. To prepare a compress, you need to take 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of soda and a little hot water. All ingredients must be mixed until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Apply the resulting mixture to gauze, fold in 4 layers and apply to the chest area where the inflamed area is located. Leave the compress overnight, covered with plastic and a scarf. Repeat the procedure for 10 days to get the maximum effect.

Herbal teas are another complementary method to speed up the healing process of pleurisy. The anti-aging and soothing properties of the herbs will help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process. One of the most effective herbal remedies is nettle herbal tea. You can add 1-2 tablespoons of nettle to a kettle of hot water and steep for 5 minutes. The drink not only heals, but is also rich in vitamins and minerals, which is necessary in the treatment of pleurisy.

A nutritious diet also plays an important role in the treatment of pleurisy. Make sure you eat enough fruits, vegetables, protein foods and greens. Limit your intake of fatty foods, alcohol, and salt. Meals should be light and the food should not contain many calories so as not to overload the respiratory system. Another useful product is pomegranate. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps cleanse the blood.

• Honey and soda compresses
• Herbal teas
• Nutritious diet

Home remedies for pleurisy: folk remedies

Pleurisy can be painful and uncomfortable, but with the right treatment you can speed up the healing process. For those who prefer natural methods of treatment, there are several folk remedies that can help in the fight against pleurisy.

• Beet juice. Drinking freshly squeezed beetroot juice may help relieve symptoms of pleurisy.
• Compresses with onions. Onion compresses help reduce inflammation and reduce pain. To make a compress, chop an onion and apply to the chest, covering with gauze.
• Garlic infusion. Not only does garlic help protect against disease, but it also has antibacterial properties that can help fight pleurisy. To make a garlic infusion, chop 3-4 cloves of garlic and add to a glass of hot water. Infuse for 10-15 minutes, then take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day.

Do not forget that folk remedies can only be effective when combined with the right treatment prescribed by a doctor. If symptoms of pleurisy persist, seek medical attention. In addition to folk remedies, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, painkillers and other medications that will help speed up recovery.

Basic recommendations for the treatment of pleurisy at home

Complete rest

The most important condition for the treatment of pleurisy at home is complete rest. Rest allows you to reduce stress levels on the body and reduce the number of working muscles, which reduces the load on the lungs and allows them to recover.

Moderate exercise

Severe physical imbalance can make home treatment of pleurisy worse. However, it is impossible to completely abandon physical activity. Moderate and regular physical activity, such as walking, can improve blood circulation and, as a result, speed up the recovery process.

Diet

Diet is especially important when treating pleurisy at home. The liquid should be taken in the required quantities and not overeat. Limit salt and spices to prevent pulmonary edema and other problems.

Drinking plenty of water

For pleurisy at home, drinking plenty of water is recommended for quick relief. It helps to maintain the water balance in the body, increases the level of oxygenation in the blood and speeds up the recovery of the lungs.

Hygiene

Hygiene must not be forgotten when treating pleurisy at home. The course can complicate the likelihood of infections, colds and other diseases, as a result of which the state of health may worsen. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid contact with sick people and observe the rules of personal hygiene.

How to prevent the recurrence of pleurisy?

Pleurisy is a disease in which the inflammatory process covers the pleura – the membrane that covers the inner surface of the chest and lungs. To prevent the recurrence of pleurisy, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Completely avoid smoking and contact with people who smoke, as smoking is one of the most common causes of pleurisy;
• Follow your doctor’s advice about alcohol and drugs;
• Avoid contact with allergens and other substances that may cause an allergic reaction;
• Take care of your health and treat illnesses (such as acute respiratory illness or pneumonia) that can cause pleurisy;
• Get preventive medical examinations and check-ups every year to detect diseases of the lungs and other organs and start their treatment in a timely manner.

Remember that following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence of pleurisy. If you experience any symptoms of the disease, be sure to seek medical attention. Do not self-medicate, as this can cause serious complications.

When to see a doctor for pleurisy

Pleurisy is a disease that requires a visit to a doctor. If you notice symptoms of pleurisy that do not go away for a long time, you should consult a doctor. This may be chest pain, cough, short-term shortness of breath, feeling tired, chest cramps, or other symptoms.

Neglect of illness can lead to complications such as infections or even non-functioning of the lungs. See a doctor if you experience any symptoms, or if you have been ill before or have had the opportunity to be in contact with someone who has the disease.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is pleurisy?

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura, the membrane that covers the lungs and forms a cavity between the lung and the chest wall. Symptoms of pleurisy are chest pain, cough, shortness of breath.

What treatments for pleurisy can be used at home?

Pleurisy can be treated at home with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antipyretics, antibiotics, hot compresses, and chest massage. However, it is important to remember that only a doctor can prescribe the most effective treatment depending on the cause of the disease.

What role does proper breathing play in treating pleurisy at home?

Proper breathing is important to ensure adequate ventilation of the lungs and improve blood circulation. The use of breathing exercises can help reduce pain and improve the general condition of the patient.

Is it possible to use folk remedies for the treatment of pleurisy at home?

For pleurisy, folk remedies can help relieve pain and speed up recovery. However, you should consult your doctor before using any remedy, as some herbs may cause allergic reactions and interact with other medications.

Is there a prophylaxis for pleurisy?

For the prevention of pleurisy, it is important to monitor your health, do not neglect vaccinations, avoid hypothermia, breathe properly, and regularly do exercises to strengthen the chest. It is also necessary to treat diseases that can cause pleurisy in time.