What are the symptoms of pleurisy?

The main symptoms of pleurisy include the following aspects: 1. Chest pain: This is the most common symptom of pleurisy, usually characterized by sharp chest pain that may vary with the depth of breathing. The painful area is typically located behind the breastbone or on the sides of the chest. 2. Cough: Patients with pleurisy often experience coughing, which may worsen the chest pain. Sometimes, a small amount of sputum may be produced. 3. Shortness of breath: Due to pleural compression caused by inflammation, patients may feel breathless, especially during deep breathing or physical activity. 4. Pleural effusion: As the condition progresses, patients may develop pleural effusion (fluid accumulation around the lung). When the volume of fluid becomes significant, patients may feel chest tightness and shortness of breath. 5. Systemic symptoms: If pleurisy is caused by an infection, patients may also experience symptoms such as fever, chills, general malaise, fatigue, night sweats, and loss of appetite. It should be noted that symptoms of pleurisy may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. If there are any concerns, timely medical consultation is recommended.