Pleural Effusion Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Pleural effusion is an abnormal collection of fluid in the pleural space. The pleura itself is a thin membrane that lines the lungs and chest wall. Between the pleura that lines the lungs and the chest wall is the pleural cavity. Normally, there is a small amount of fluid in this space which acts as a lubricant between the two pleura during the movement of the lungs during breathing.
Symptoms
The most common symptom experienced by people with pleural effusion is shortness of breath. When a pleural effusion occurs, fluid in the pleural space causes the lungs to not fully expand when you inhale. The result is shortness of breath which is the most common symptom.
In addition to tightness, pleural effusion can cause symptoms of coughing. Generally, the cough that is experienced is mild and does not produce phlegm. However, if it is caused by pneumonia, symptoms of coughing up phlegm can occur. Chest pain can also be complained of by people with pleural effusion. This is generally associated with irritation of the pleura.
Reason
Fluid buildup in the pleural cavity or pleural effusion can be caused by:
- Disease and inflammation of the lungs, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, or pulmonary edema.
- Heart failure.
- Low protein in the blood, causing fluid to easily come out of the blood vessels and can collect in the pleural cavity. An example is the condition of cirrhosis of the liver and kidney disease.
- Decreased rate of absorption from the lymphatic vessels, for example, due to blockage of the lymph nodes due to malignancy or trauma.
Diagnosis
To determine the diagnosis of pleural effusion, a thorough evaluation is needed. Evaluation can be done through gathering information from the patient and physical examination. A useful supporting examination is a chest X-ray examination. Taking a fluid sample can help diagnose the cause of a pleural effusion.
Treatment
If the cause of pleural effusion is known, treatment efforts are usually directed at that main cause. For example giving OAT (anti-tuberculosis drugs) to tuberculosis patients, giving antibiotics to pneumonia patients, or giving diuretics to cases of heart failure.
To remove excess fluid, a thoracotomy can be performed by inserting a tube into the pleural cavity. The tube will drain excess fluid out of the pleural cavity.
Prevention
Pleural effusion is the effect of other health problems. Therefore, fluid accumulation is sometimes a condition that is difficult to prevent.