Is a large amount of pleural effusion in both sides of the chest serious?
Disease description:
Recently, I've often felt chest tightness. I had a tumor several years ago, which was later removed. This morning's examination revealed fluid in the pleural cavity. Is having a large amount of pleural effusion on both sides serious?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Bilateral pleural effusion is severe, with fluid occupying more than half of the lung area, which may lead to symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. This condition is usually caused by serious underlying diseases, such as tumors, heart failure, hypoalbuminemia, or uremia. If large amounts of pleural fluid are not promptly treated, the volume of fluid may increase, raising the risk of syncope and even increasing mortality. Timely further evaluation and prompt management are necessary.
