Pleuritic is an adjective that describes a medical condition known as pleurisy or pleuritis, which is an inflammation of the pleura. The pleura is a double-layered membrane that lines the lungs and the inside of the chest cavity. Pleuritic symptoms often include sharp or stabbing chest pain that intensifies during breathing or coughing.
The term "pleuritic" is commonly used to characterize any pain, discomfort, or other symptoms directly associated with the pleura. It can also refer to any condition or disease involving inflammation of the pleura. This inflammation can result from various factors, such as infection, autoimmune disorders, lung diseases, or in some cases, trauma.
A patient diagnosed with pleuritic pain may experience symptoms including sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing or sneezing. Other common symptoms include shortness of breath, shallow breathing, dry or productive coughing, and occasionally, fever. Diagnosis of pleurisy involves physical examination, listening to the chest with a stethoscope, and potentially further tests such as blood tests, chest X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans.
Treatment for pleuritic pain usually focuses on addressing the underlying cause, such as antibiotics for infection or anti-inflammatory medications for inflammation. Pain management can involve over-the-counter pain relievers or stronger prescription medications to alleviate discomfort. Additionally, treating any associated conditions and ensuring proper lung ventilation may be necessary to relieve pleuritic symptoms.
In summary, pleuritic is an adjective used to describe inflammation and associated symptoms of the pleura. It primarily characterizes chest pain exacerbated by breathing or coughing, and its treatment depends on the underlying cause.
