What causes massive pleural effusion and what should be done?

Generally, large amounts of pleural effusion may be caused by chest trauma, hypoproteinemia, congestive heart failure, pleural metastases, tuberculous pleurisy, and other conditions. If experiencing discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Chest Trauma

If a patient sustains chest injuries from incidents such as car accidents or falls from a height, the pleura, intercostal blood vessels, or lung tissue may be damaged. This damage can cause blood vessels to rupture, allowing blood to enter the pleural cavity and form a pleural effusion, which is often bloody. Treatment may include medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Cefixime Dispersible Tablets, Levofloxacin Tablets, and others, as directed by a physician.

2. Hypoproteinemia

When plasma protein levels decrease, the colloid osmotic pressure also drops, causing an increase in pleural fluid due to pressure differences, leading to pleural effusion. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as massive proteinuria and hyperlipidemia. It is recommended to enhance nutrition, take oral protein supplements, and improve physical condition.

3. Congestive Heart Failure

When a patient's cardiac pumping function weakens and venous return is obstructed, systemic congestion may occur. This congestive state increases the hydrostatic pressure in the pleural capillaries, making it easier for fluid to leak from the blood vessels into the pleural cavity. Symptoms may include lower limb edema, jugular vein distention, and hepatomegaly. Treatment may involve medications such as Isosorbide Dinitrate Tablets, Verapamil Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Tablets, Metoprolol Succinate Sustained-Release Tablets, and others, as directed by a physician.

4. Pleural Metastases

Tumor cells growing and proliferating on the pleura can destroy its normal structure, stimulating inflammatory responses and increasing capillary permeability. Abnormal tumor angiogenesis can also lead to increased fluid leakage. Symptoms may include chest pain and dyspnea. Treatment may involve medications such as Paclitaxel Injection, Cisplatin Injection, Oxaliplatin Mannitol Injection, and others, as directed by a physician.

5. Tuberculous Pleurisy

Tuberculous pleurisy is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. After invading the pleura, the bacteria trigger an inflammatory response from the body's immune system. Inflammatory mediators increase the permeability of pleural capillaries, allowing proteins and cells from the bloodstream to leak into the pleural cavity, forming a pleural effusion. Symptoms may include low-grade fever, night sweats, and fatigue. Treatment may involve medications such as Isoniazid Tablets, Rifampin Tablets, Ethambutol Hydrochloride Tablets, and others, as directed by a physician.

In daily life, patients should maintain a positive attitude, cooperate with medical treatment, ensure adequate nutrient intake, and enhance physical strength and immunity.