What causes pleurisy?

Pleurisy usually occurs because the pleura becomes irritated or infected. The pleura is a thin membrane covering the lungs and the lining of the chest cavity. There is a thin layer of fluid between them that reduces friction and helps the lungs expand and contract smoothly. When the pleura becomes inflamed, this comfortable glide is disrupted, causing pain and discomfort.

There are many causes of pleurisy, and one of the most common causes is infection. Bacterial, viral or fungal infections can cause pleurisy, especially lung infections such as pneumonia and tuberculosis. Imagine that when bacteria or viruses wreak havoc in the lungs, they may also invade the adjacent pleura, causing inflammation.

In addition to infection, pleurisy can also be caused by other diseases in the body. For example, rheumatic diseases such as lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis may affect the pleura and cause it to become inflamed. In other cases, pleurisy occurs after trauma or surgery, when the pleura may become inflamed due to direct injury or surgical irritation.

Sometimes, the development of pleurisy is related to certain lifestyle habits. People who smoke, drink excessively, or are exposed to harmful chemicals for a long time may have an increased risk of pleurisy. These factors may weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to infection or inflammation.

If you suspect you may have pleurisy, the best thing to do is to see a doctor immediately. Your doctor will usually determine the cause based on your symptoms, physical examination, and imaging tests, and will prescribe an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment may include antibiotics, antiviral medications, or anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation.

Pleurisy can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from infections to immune system problems to lifestyle factors. Understanding these possible causes can help us better prevent and manage this disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting regular medical checkups are key to reducing your risk of developing the disease. Hopefully this article has provided you with some useful insights into the causes of pleurisy.