Pleural Effusion

[lidlicker]

Has anyone had this? I had this done over three weeks ago and I am still getting some discomfort, especially at night when I can't sleep on the side affected. Just wondered how long it takes to 'heal' Many thanks in advance.

[Peter Pedant]

It depends what it was due to L L

and what was done.

[lidlicker]

Thanks for replying. I was breathless and had an xray which showed fluid on my lung. A drain was inserted (in for five days) over two litres of fluid was drained.

[Peter Pedant]

I think it is time to return to your GP.

[ when I broke a rib - I cdnt lie on it for weeks
but when I had a pleural effusion for a completely different reason to you, it drained naturally when I started tmt for the underlying cause]

[Sqad]

There is more to this story............pleural effusion is not a disease, it is a sign.

A sign of what?

Many things.

It will only "heal" when the cause has been successfully treated.

[Peter Pedant]

that's why it thought it might be sensible to return to the GP

[lidlicker]

Thank you very much to you both for taking the time to reply. I was given tablets to take, so I will just have to be patient.

[daffy654]

I have not had a pleural effusion but have had a chest drain many times to drain air leaks (not fluid). The pain after removal can last quite some time, you may find it still gives you the odd twinge several months from now.