Pleuritic pneumonia involves the inflammation of the exterior lung sac or pleura. The typical symptoms of pneumonia occur with this condition that can be accompanied by other symptoms that arise from the pleural inflammation. The build-up of fluid around the lungs often arises with pleuritic pneumonia. Viruses, bacteria or fungi can lead to the development of pleuritic pneumonia. The treatment is focused on antimicrobial medications to manage the infection and pain management.
Sore cough
Individuals who have pleuritic pneumonia usually have a cough that sounds wet. The involvement of the pleura can cause stabbing, piercing pain once the affected area rubs against the chest wall.
The coughing can cause intense and localized pain. The individual might be able to point out to a specific region in the chest that reflects the area of the swollen pleura. Among those who have pleuritic pneumonia, they often suppress the coughing episodes in order to prevent discomfort or pain.
Shallow breathing
During deep breathing, it causes the rubbing of the pleura against the chest wall. This triggers pain among those who have pleuritic pneumonia. The ideal way to prevent pain is to resort to shallow breathing. Take note that this pattern of breathing can contribute to shortness of breath that is often experienced by individuals who have pneumonia.
Shortness of breath
The shortness of breath can manifest with any form of pneumonia. Individuals who have pleuritic pneumonia can end up with fluid buildup around the infected lung which is called pleural effusion.
The pleural effusion can limit the full expansion of the lung which adds up to shortness of breath. In severe cases that involves a large region of one or both lungs, shortness of breath can occur along with bluish discoloration around the lips of the individual which indicates inadequate oxygen in the bloodstream.
Self-imposed limitation on movements
Any movement might trigger piercing pain of pleuritic pneumonia. Most individuals often have limited and careful movement as they attempt to avoid any activity that might trigger the pain. Due to this, once an individual with pleuritic pneumonia is required to move, he/she might press on the sore area since it reduces the degree of pain.
Muscle aches and fatigue
Muscle aches and fatigue often develop with pneumonia. The development of these symptoms can be used to determine if the individual has pleuritic pneumonia from other causes of pleuritic chest pain such as heart attack, blood clot in the lungs and inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart.
Once an individual is suspected with pleuritic pneumonia, it is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor so that thorough assessment and testing can be carried out. This will ensure that the right diagnosis can be given as well as start the appropriate treatment.