Overview
Pleural effusion is a sign of an underlying condition. Small effusions may cause no symptoms, while large ones make breathing difficult.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain, often worse when breathing in
- Dry cough
- Fever if caused by infection
Causes and risk factors
Causes include heart failure, pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancer, kidney and liver disease, pulmonary embolism and autoimmune conditions.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses a chest X-ray, ultrasound or CT. Fluid may be removed with a needle (thoracentesis) and tested.
Treatment
Treatment includes draining the fluid and treating the cause. Repeated effusions may need a chest drain, pleurodesis or a long-term catheter.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for breathlessness or chest pain. Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
