What Is Pleurisy?
7. Empyema
In some cases, the additional fluid in between the pleura can become infected, and this can cause pus to accumulate in the pleural space. There are numerous reasons this can happen, and recently having had pneumonia is among the most common. Some surgical procedures can also cause the space to become infected.
Typical symptoms of empyema include a dry cough and being short of breath. A pain in the chest is another symptom, and empyema will also sometimes cause headaches. The condition can also cause a loss of appetite, confusion, and excessive sweating. The pus will need to be drained from the cavity to help prevent severe complications.
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