{"id":6323,"date":"2019-05-02T03:55:16","date_gmt":"2019-05-02T03:55:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/?p=6323"},"modified":"2021-04-05T14:24:55","modified_gmt":"2021-04-05T14:24:55","slug":"14-things-to-know-about-pleural-effusion","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/14-things-to-know-about-pleural-effusion\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Things To Know About Pleural Effusion"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Pleural effusion occurs when the lining around the lungs fills with fluid and becomes inflamed and swollen. This is often caused by a virus, another health condition, or a toxic substance that has entered the lungs. A pleural effusion can cause a variety of symptoms, and although they can be treated, the condition will not improve until the underlying cause is found and treated as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If left untreated, the condition can lead to complications and problems with other organs in the body. Congestive heart failure is often related to pleural effusion. One condition can cause the other or make it more severe. Pleural effusion can be diagnosed by a doctor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the underlying condition is a virus, it will need to run its course. Doctors may be able to treat the symptoms until the patient recovers. Pleural effusion can be painful and exhausting. The more you know about it, the more likely you will be to recognize the symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Risk of Pleural Effusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are certain factors that can make a person more likely to develop pleural effusion<\/a>. Since the lungs and the heart work together, when one becomes weakened, the other can suffer too. \u00a0Congestive heart failure is one of the leading causes of pleural effusion. When the heart isn\u2019t working right, the chest can fill up with fluid. This can put more pressure on the heart and cause the condition to get worse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other risk factors include low protein levels in the blood and environmental factors. People who are exposed to chemicals, asbestos, and other insulation are more likely to develop a pleural effusion. When certain things are breathed into the lungs, the lungs become aggravated and inflamed. Sometimes, people won\u2019t show any symptoms or signs of the pleural effusions for years after exposure. Those who think they may be at risk for lung problems should see a doctor regularly for checkups to rule out any serious conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2. Causes of Pleural Effusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pleural effusion is actually a symptom of an underlying condition. There are many different illnesses and health problems that can cause pleural effusion. Finding the cause of the pleural effusion is important because it helps doctors come up with an appropriate treatment plan for the underlying condition and the problem itself. \u00a0The body makes pleural fluid to help lubricate the lungs<\/a>. A little fluid is good, but too much can mean a problem. There are two types of pleural effusion; exudative effusion and transudative effusion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both types have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Exudative tends to be the more serious type of pleural effusion and is often the hardest to treat. Causes can range from something simple such as a common cold, or something more serious such a congestion heart failure. The sooner the cause can be found; the sooner proper treatment can begin. Some cases can be cleared up completely, and others require long-term treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3. Symptoms of Pleural Effusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The symptoms of pleural effusion usually start off mildly. Most people think they have a common cold or flu <\/a>and don\u2019t seek treatment right away. The longer the pleural effusion and the underlying cause goes untreated, the worse the symptoms become. Some treatments are more serious than others, and not everyone will experience the same symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms may come and go for some people and be chronic for others. Most people start treating their symptoms before they get a proper diagnosis. While it\u2019s possible to treat some symptoms, they will not get better until the underlying cause is treated. Some people experience symptoms for a few days after the underlying cause has been found and treated. If the underlying cause is an infection, it can return, and the symptoms may become more severe the second time around.  Some common symptoms include,<\/p>\n\n\n\n