Pleurisy treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Pleurisy treatment
Recommended health tests for Pleurisy
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Pleurisy
Pleurisy, often known as pleuritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, the double-layered membrane surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity. This inflammation causes sharp chest pain that worsens during breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Although pleurisy can affect people of all ages, its prevalence is not thoroughly documented, as it often occurs in conjunction with other lung and respiratory conditions.
Causes
Pleurisy can be triggered by various factors, including viral infections (the most common cause), bacterial infections, fungal infections, lung injuries, chest trauma, and underlying diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Additionally, a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot in the lungs, can lead to pleurisy by causing inflammation in the pleural tissues.
Signs and symptoms
- Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing - Pain on one side of the chest - Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing - Dry cough - Fever and chills, in cases where the pleurisy is caused by an infection
Diagnosing Pleurisy
Diagnosing pleurisy involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a healthcare provider. The hallmark sign that doctors look for is the pain associated with deep breathing. Diagnostic tests may include chest X-rays to check for pneumonia or other conditions that might cause pleurisy, ultrasound to examine the pleural space, and CT scans for a more detailed view. In some cases, a thoracentesis, where a needle is inserted into the pleural space to withdraw fluid for analysis, might be performed to determine the cause of the inflammation.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing pleurisy involves addressing any underlying conditions that could lead to pleural inflammation and avoiding risk factors such as smoking, which can exacerbate respiratory issues. When it comes to treatment, natural and functional medicine approaches focus on reducing inflammation and managing pain while addressing the root cause of the pleurisy. 1. Dietary Changes: Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish like salmon), and whole grains to help reduce inflammation in the body. 2. Herbal Remedies: Certain herbs, such as turmeric (curcumin), ginger, and garlic have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial in managing pleurisy symptoms. 3. Supplements: Vitamin D, vitamin C, and omega-3 supplements may also help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. 4. Adequate Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help thin the mucus in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. 5. Breathing Exercises: Gentle breathing exercises can help improve lung capacity and ease breathing difficulties. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for tailored exercises that won't exacerbate the condition. 6. Rest: Adequate rest is crucial for the body to heal and recover from pleurisy. While these natural and functional medicine approaches can complement traditional medical treatment, they should not replace consultations with a healthcare provider. It's vital to seek professional medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to individual needs.
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