Is purulent pleurisy serious?

Purulent pleurisy is a serious disease. If not treated promptly, it may be life-threatening. You need to seek medical attention and receive targeted treatment as soon as possible.

Purulent pleurisy is a disease in which pus accumulates after the pleura is infected. It is often caused by bacterial infection, trauma, or the spread of adjacent infection foci (such as pneumonia, empyema). Symptoms of the disease include fever, chest pain, dyspnea, cough, etc. Some patients may also experience chills or general fatigue. The increase in pleural cavity pressure caused by pus accumulation may cause lung compression and affect respiratory function. Without intervention, the inflammation may spread further to other organs and even induce serious conditions such as sepsis. The causes of purulent pleurisy include decreased immunity (such as the elderly, diabetes, and cancer patients are more susceptible to infection), bacterial invasion caused by trauma, and postoperative infection. Common pathogens include Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, so the pathogen needs to be identified immediately after diagnosis.

Treatment usually includes three methods: first, broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment, such as cephalosporins or penicillins, and if necessary, adjust the medication according to drug sensitivity tests; second, thoracentesis and drainage, which is used to drain pus and relieve chest pressure; third, surgical removal of the pus cavity in severe infections. Patients need to pay attention to bed rest and maintain adequate nutritional intake to promote the recovery of the immune system. Common protein supplements include milk, eggs, etc.

If you experience symptoms such as persistent high fever, severe chest pain, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately to avoid delaying the disease. During treatment, it is very important to regularly check imaging and blood indicators so that you can evaluate infection control and adjust treatment plans at any time. Through early intervention, vigorous drainage, and personalized medication, most patients can recover successfully.