Pleurisy

Pleurisy is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of the linings of your lungs (pleura). This can cause pain in your chest, back, or shoulder. It can also cause trouble breathing.

Follow these instructions at home:

Medicines

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• If you were prescribed antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your doctor. Do not stop taking the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.

Activity

• Rest and return to your normal activities as told by your doctor. Ask your doctor what activities are safe for you.
• Do not drive or use heavy machinery while taking prescription pain medicine.

General instructions

• Watch for any changes in your condition.
• Take deep breaths often, even if it is painful. This can help prevent lung problems.
• When lying down, lie on your painful side. This may help you feel less pain.
• Do not smoke. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.

Contact a doctor if:

• You have pain that:
  • Gets worse.
  • Does not get better with medicine.
  • Lasts for more than 1 week.
• You have a fever or chills.
• You have a cough that does not get better at home.
• You have trouble breathing that does not get better at home.
• You cough up liquid that looks like pus (purulent secretions).

Get help right away if:

• Your lips, fingernails, or toenails turn dark or turn blue.
• You cough up blood.
• You have trouble breathing that gets worse.
• You are making loud noises when you breathe (wheezing) and this gets worse.
• You have pain that spreads to your neck, arms, or jaw.
• You get a rash.
• You throw up (vomit).
• You pass out (faint).

Summary

• Pleurisy is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of the linings of your lungs (pleura).
• Pleurisy can cause pain and trouble breathing.
• If you have a cough that does not get better at home, contact your doctor.
• Get help right away if you are having trouble breathing and it is getting worse.