pleurisy

[shopper]

Has anyone had recurrent bouts of pleurisy. In July I had an operation to repair a mitral heart valve, and I was recovering well until the beginning of Sept when I had the most awful pain in my left side and shoulder. I could hardly breath. I went to the hospital and after x rays and blood tests, I was told I had pleurisy caused by inflammation outside of the lung. I was given painkillers and ibrufropen. I was bad for about a week, and then another week when I felt quite well. Since then it happened three more times. At my check up I told the heart consultant Id been ill, he sent me for an echo scan, the valve was working perfectly, and he discharged me. Ive never had any problems with my lungs before this. Has anyone any experience of having pleurisy so may times, and can give me any help or advise.