Pleural Effusion: What It Is, Causes, and Symptoms

Pleural effusion disease. Fluid between the layers of tissue in lungs and chest cavity. DIfficult breathing. Unhealthy internal organs in the human body. Respiratory system medical vector illustration

What Is Pleural Effusion?

Pleural effusion is a health condition where extra fluid builds up between the layers of tissue around your lungs. Normally, these layers have a small amount of fluid to help your lungs move smoothly. However, too much fluid can make it hard to breathe. This problem is sometimes called “fluid in the lungs,” but the fluid actually collects outside the lungs, in the chest cavity. Pleural effusion can affect people of any age. Because it can be a sign of a serious illness, it is important to know what to look for.

Causes of Pleural Effusion

There are many causes of pleural effusion. Some are common, while others are less frequent. Knowing the cause helps doctors choose the right treatment. Below are some of the main reasons why pleural effusion can happen:

  • Heart failure: This is the most common cause. When the heart cannot pump blood well, fluid can leak into the chest.
  • Pneumonia: Infections in the lungs can cause swelling and fluid buildup.
  • Cancer: Lung cancer, breast cancer, or cancers that spread to the chest can lead to pleural effusion.
  • Liver disease: Conditions like cirrhosis can cause fluid to collect in the chest.
  • Kidney disease: When the kidneys do not work well, fluid may build up in the body, including around the lungs.

    • In addition, there are less common causes, such as:

  • Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
  • Autoimmune diseases, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
  • Injury or trauma to the chest
  • Infections like tuberculosis

    • Because pleural effusion can have many causes, doctors often run tests to find out why it happened.

    Symptoms of Pleural Effusion

    Many people with pleural effusion notice symptoms as the fluid builds up. However, some people may not feel anything at first. It is important to watch for signs, especially if you have a health condition that increases your risk. Common pleural effusion symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially when active or lying down
  • Chest pain, which may get worse when you breathe deeply or cough
  • Cough that does not go away
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Fever, if an infection is present

    • Sometimes, the symptoms can be mild. But as more fluid collects, breathing can become harder. For example, you may notice you cannot walk as far as before. Or, you may wake up at night feeling out of breath. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to a doctor. Early treatment can help prevent problems.

    When to Seek Help

    Pleural effusion can be a sign of a serious health issue. Therefore, you should not ignore symptoms like trouble breathing or chest pain. If you notice signs of pleural effusion, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Quick action can help you feel better and avoid complications.

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