Pleurisy

Overview

Pleurisy is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity, causing sharp chest pain when breathing. Other symptoms depend on the underlying cause and may include shortness of breath, cough, fever, or weight loss. The most common cause is viral infection.

Symptoms

• Chest pain
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Chest tightness

Treatment

Treatment focuses on the underlying cause, such as standardized anti-tuberculosis therapy for tuberculous cases and antibiotics for bacterial infections, along with pain relief and drainage of pleural effusion when necessary. Seek medical attention promptly to identify the cause.

Dietary advice

A light diet rich in protein and vitamins aids recovery; drink plenty of water. Avoid spicy and greasy foods, and quit smoking and alcohol.