Pleurisy

What is pleurisy?

Pleurisy happens when the thin layer around your lungs becomes swollen and sore. This causes sharp chest pain, especially when you breathe in. The good news is that pleurisy usually gets better on its own within a few days.

What does pleurisy feel like?

The main sign of pleurisy is a sharp, stabbing pain in your chest when you breathe in. You might notice:

• The pain gets worse when you cough, sneeze or move around
• The pain might spread to your shoulders or back
• It feels different from other types of chest pain - more like a sharp stab than a dull ache

When should you speak to your GP?

Contact your GP urgently or call NHS 111 if you have:

• Sharp chest pain that comes and goes, especially when breathing or coughing
• Sharp chest pain that hasn't improved after a few days
• Small spots or streaks of blood when you cough
• You're regularly feeling out of breath

You can call 111 or use the 111 online service for advice.

When is it an emergency?

Call 999 or go straight to A&E if you have:

• Sudden chest pain lasting 15 minutes or more
• Chest pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing up more than just small spots of blood
• Trouble breathing with a very fast heartbeat and chest pain

These symptoms could mean something more serious is happening, like a heart attack or blood clot in your lungs.

Important: Don't drive yourself to A&E. Ask someone else to drive you or call 999 for an ambulance. Take any medicines you're taking with you.

What happens at your appointment?

Your GP will examine you and listen to your chest with a stethoscope. They might refer you to a specialist if they're not sure what's causing your symptoms.

You might need tests like:

• Blood tests
• Chest X-ray
• Ultrasound scan
• CT scan

How is pleurisy treated?

Most of the time, pleurisy gets better by itself within a few days. You don't always need treatment from your GP.

To help with the pain at home:

• Take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Rest in different positions until you find one that's comfortable
• Lying on the side that hurts can sometimes help

If your pleurisy is caused by a bacterial infection (like pneumonia), your GP might prescribe antibiotics.

You might need hospital treatment if your symptoms are severe or caused by something more serious.

What causes pleurisy?

Pleurisy can be caused by different things, including chest infections like pneumonia. Sometimes it can be a sign of other conditions, which is why it's important to speak to your GP if you have symptoms.

The key message

While pleurisy often gets better on its own, chest pain should always be checked by a healthcare professional. Don't ignore symptoms, especially if they're getting worse or you have any of the emergency warning signs listed above.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.