Pleurisy

Alternate Names : Pleuritis

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Prevention of pleurisy is often focused toward staying healthy. Preventing pneumonia is very important. This can be accomplished by a one-time pneumonia vaccine, with a booster as recommended by the healthcare provider. Many cases of the flu can be avoid with an annual influenza vaccine, or flu shot. Proper control of illnesses known to cause pleurisy is also important. Prevention of tobacco smoking is one important way to ensure healthy lungs.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Single episodes of pleurisy, such as those caused by pneumonia, have no long term effects. Occasionally, people will suffer from scarring of the pleura. This results in abnormal breathing and constant pain. Adhesions can occur where the pleura attaches to the chest wall. If this problem is severe enough to affect lung function, surgery may be required.

What are the risks to others?

Pleurisy caused by viral or bacterial upper respiratory infections can be contagious. Tuberculosis is highly contagious.