Is pleurisy dangerous if not treated?

Yes, pleurisy can be dangerous if not treated because inflammation of the pleura, the membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity, can lead to several serious complications. Some potential dangers of untreated pleurisy include:

1. Development of a pleural effusion: Pleurisy can cause fluid to accumulate in the pleural space, leading to a condition known as a pleural effusion. If the effusion becomes large, it can compress the lungs and impair breathing.

2. Infection or empyema: Untreated pleurisy can increase the risk of a pleural infection, known as empyema. This occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms enter the pleural space and cause an infection. Empyema can be serious and may require drainage of the infected fluid and antibiotic treatment.

3. Chronic pleurisy: In some cases, pleurisy can become chronic and persist for an extended period. Chronic pleurisy can cause ongoing chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, affecting a person's quality of life.

4. Lung damage: Severe or persistent pleurisy can lead to scarring of the lung tissue and thickening of the pleura, which can impair lung function and cause respiratory problems.

5. Complications during surgery: If a person with untreated pleurisy undergoes surgery, there is an increased risk of complications, such as prolonged air leak, infection, and difficulty re-expanding the lungs.

Therefore, it is important for pleurisy to be evaluated by a healthcare professional and for appropriate treatment to be initiated to reduce the risk of these complications and ensure proper management of the condition.