Pleural Effusions
What is Pleural Effusion?
Pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid between the layers of the pleura (the membranes surrounding the lungs). It can impair breathing and may be caused by a variety of underlying conditions.
Causes of Pleural Effusion:
- Heart failure: Fluid buildup due to heart dysfunction
- Pneumonia: Infections leading to fluid accumulation
- Cancer: Lung, breast, or other cancers can cause pleural effusion
- Liver or kidney disease: Conditions that affect fluid balance
- Pulmonary embolism: Blood clots in the lungs
Common Signs and Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply
- Coughing
- Decreased breath sounds on one side of the chest
- Fatigue
Popular Treatment Methods:
- Thoracentesis: Removal of fluid from the pleural space using a needle
- Diuretics: To manage fluid buildup, especially in heart failure
- Treating underlying cause: e.g., antibiotics for infection, cancer treatment
- Chest tube drainage: For larger or recurrent effusions