Pleurisy: What is it?
Pleurisy refers to inflammation of the thin tissue layers that divide the lungs and the chest cavity. The painful condition can cause difficulty breathing and shortness of breathe. When the pleural membranes are inflamed, irritated, or injured due to injury or infection, pleurisy can occur. It can cause sharp, dull, and sometimes severe pain.
Pleurisy can be a serious medical condition that affects up to 10% in any one year. Pleurisy is most common in smokers, older people, and patients with lung diseases such as COPD or Asthma . Additional risk factors include certain Medications and environmental toxins, autoimmune disease, and other medical conditions.
Pleurisy: Common Causes
Viral Infections such as flu and Pneumonia are the most frequent causes of pleurisy. Others include pneumonia, bacterial infections and chest trauma. Fungal infections, asbestos exposure, heart disease and drug reactions are less common.
Common Treatments for Pleurisy
The underlying causes of pleurisy will determine the treatment. Treatment for viral infections usually includes rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relief. For bacterial infections, Antibiotics may be prescribed. Corticosteroids can also be used for inflammation. Surgery may be required in cases of severe chest trauma. Anticoagulants or oxygen therapy may also be used in cases of chest trauma.
Most cases of pleurisy resolve within weeks if the condition is treated properly. If the condition is not treated, however complications may occur. This could be fluid buildup within the lungs (known as a Pleural effusion) or infection of the inner lining of your lungs (known as an empyema). In severe cases, you may need to be admitted and given intravenous antibiotics.
Views of Experts and Pros on Pleurisy
Studies have demonstrated that early treatment and diagnosis of pleurisy is a better option than waiting for complications. The American Thoracic Society states that the treatment goal is to decrease pain and inflammation as well as prevent any further damage to the membrane. It is crucial to address underlying conditions in cases where there are medical issues.
Experts recommend that anyone who experiences symptoms of pleurisy consult a doctor immediately. The best way to reduce complications is to get treatment early. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and avoiding environmental toxins can reduce your risk of developing pleurisy.
Pleurisy Tips and Natural Remedies
There is no cure, but there are natural ways to ease symptoms and accelerate recovery. They include:
- Sleep: It is important for your body to get enough rest. Take breaks during the day and avoid strenuous activity.
- Heating pad: A heating pad can be used to reduce the pain and tension in your muscles.
- Ginger: Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation and swelling. Make ginger tea, or use fresh ginger in your cooking.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is rich in curcumin which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and other properties. You can add turmeric to your food or drink turmeric tea.
- Eucalyptus oil: Eucalyptus oils has antiviral, antibacterial and can reduce inflammation. You can add a few drops to warm water or inhale it through a steam inhalation.
Before you try any natural treatments, it is important that you consult your physician. Certain herbs and supplements can interact with prescriptions and cause side effects.
Conclusion
Pleurisy can be a serious medical condition. It affects as high as 10% of the world's population. This can be caused by viral and bacterial infections, trauma to the chest, or other medical conditions. The treatment includes rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relief. For more serious cases, surgery, corticosteroids or antibiotics may be required. An early diagnosis and treatment will help to reduce complications and enhance outcomes.
There are many natural ways to relieve symptoms, speed up recovery and help you get out of pain. Before you try any natural treatments, it is important that your doctor be consulted. Most cases of pleurisy can be treated quickly with proper care.
Pleurisy can be a severe condition, making it hard to breathe. It is important to get a diagnosis early and treat it as soon as possible. This will reduce the chance of developing complications. Lifestyle changes and natural remedies can help to reduce symptoms and accelerate recovery.