What should be done for pleurisy with effusion?
Disease description:
My younger brother has been experiencing persistent coughing and fever. After a hospital examination, the doctor diagnosed him with pleurisy accompanied by fluid accumulation. I am very concerned about what to do about the pleurisy with fluid buildup.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xiao Ning
When pleurisy patients develop effusion, the treatment methods mainly include the following aspects:
1. Anti-inflammatory treatment: Treatment should target the cause of the inflammation. If caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics such as Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets or Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets may be used. If caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, anti-tuberculosis medications such as Rifampin Tablets and Isoniazid Tablets are required.
2. Pain relief: When effusion accumulates to a certain extent and causes pain, analgesics such as Paracetamol with Dihydrocodeine Tablets or Paracetamol Tablets can be used to alleviate discomfort.
3. Drainage therapy: If there is a large amount of effusion causing symptoms such as chest tightness and difficulty breathing, drainage therapy may be performed. Under ultrasound guidance, doctors may perform a closed thoracic drainage procedure to remove the accumulated fluid from the pleural cavity.
During treatment, patients should also adjust their diet, avoiding spicy, greasy, or irritating foods to promote recovery. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
