What Causes Pleurisy?

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is a condition where the pleura—the thin membrane that lines the chest cavity and surrounds the lungs—becomes inflamed. This inflammation can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Understanding the causes of pleurisy is crucial for effective treatment and management of the condition.

Causes of Pleurisy

1. Infections: One of the most common causes of pleurisy is infection. Viral infections, such as the flu, can lead to inflammation of the pleura. Bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, can also cause pleurisy. These infections irritate the pleural lining, leading to the characteristic pain and discomfort.
2. Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause pleurisy. In these autoimmune diseases, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, including the pleura, resulting in inflammation.
3. Pulmonary Embolism: This is a serious condition where a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the lungs. The blockage can cause a lack of blood flow to lung tissues, leading to pleurisy as a complication.
4. Chest Injuries: Trauma to the chest, such as a rib fracture, can cause pleurisy. The injury can irritate the pleura and cause inflammation.
5. Lung Cancer: Tumors in the lungs or pleura can lead to pleurisy. The cancerous growth can directly irritate the pleura or cause a buildup of fluid between the pleural layers (pleural effusion), leading to inflammation.
6. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as pancreatitis, pulmonary fibrosis, or certain inherited diseases like sickle cell anemia can also cause pleurisy. These conditions can lead to inflammation or irritation of the pleura as a secondary complication.

Symptoms of Pleurisy

The main symptom of pleurisy is a sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, a dry cough, and fever or chills, depending on the underlying cause.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose pleurisy, doctors typically perform a physical examination, listen for abnormal chest sounds with a stethoscope, and may order imaging tests like chest X-rays or CT scans. Blood tests and pleural fluid analysis can also help identify the cause of pleurisy.

Treatment for pleurisy focuses on addressing the underlying cause. For instance, antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections, while anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, procedures to drain excess fluid from the pleural space may be necessary.

Understanding what causes pleurisy is essential for seeking appropriate medical care and managing the condition effectively. If you experience symptoms of pleurisy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

For more detailed information on pleurisy and other health-related topics, visit What Causes.