Concept and Etiology
a a a a Pleural Effusion can be described as a "Build-up of excess fluids between
the layers of the pleura outside the lungs". Pleura being the two thin outside
layers of the lungs that protect them and facilitate breathing. So, in terms of the
definition of Health discussed in the first discussion, this condition can affect
your health in a negative way. There are typically small amounts of fluid
present to aid in lubrication of the lungs. However, with Pleural Effusion there
is too much and can hinder breathing, potentially causes more health
problems.
Classification
a a a a a They are classified as exudates and transudates. Exudates being that local
factors are affected, like the lungs themselves. As far as transudates, this refers
to systematic factors are affected. For example, raised blood pressure.
Clinical Manifestations
a a a a a a a Symptoms can include chest pain, dry cough, shortness or difficulty
breathing. This can be caused by things like heart failure, surgery, lung cancer
and more. Some signs could be hearing a raspy cough, listening to the lungs or
observing someone with laboured breathing.
Diagnostic Tests
a a a a a In terms of testing for Pleural Effusion there are a few options. They
include a chest X-ray, CT scan of the chest, ultrasound of the chest and an
examination of fluid expelled.
Source
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17373-pleural-effusion-
causes-signs--treatment.
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