Pleurisy

[newbs]

Yesterday evening I had a pain come on in my chest on the left side that was stabbing when I moved and breathed in and lasted all night, couldn't lie down at all. Called out-of-hours gp this morning and got booked in and he diagnosed pleurisy. I now have strong antibiotics and advised not to work for the next 2 days. I have Tuesday off anyway as it is my daughter's 4th birthday so hopefully I will be better by then!

 

[Northerner]

Oh, that sounds horrible I hope that the anti-bs get to work quickly and that you are feeling much better for little one's birthday! 🙂

 

[LeeLee]

Sorry you're poorly newbs, particularly with something so painful (as I know to my cost). I hope this doesn't sound too negative, but don't plan to do anything strenuous for the next couple of weeks. Unfortunately that's how long it usually takes to fully recover. I hope the antibiotics kick in quickly and you feel a bit more like yourself for your daughter's birthday.

 

[Flutterby]

Oh Newbs, I am sorry that you are poorly. Glad you have the antibiotics now though and hope you soon feel better.x

 

[AJLang]

Blimey Newbs I do feel for you - things have got to get better soon. Keep smiling. I hope that the antibiotics work quickly xx

 

[jalapino]

That does sound horrible, I hope you feel better soon 🙂

 

[Copepod]

With pleurisy (or most infections of lung / chest; pluerisy is infection of the pleura, the layer that surrounds the lungs), position is important - you've already said lying down is impossible, so make a pile of cushions, pillows etc so you can sleep propped up. When awake, take deep breaths, even if it hurts, although, "splinting" (supporting ribcage with your hand) and painkillers can help make breathing a bit less uncomfortable. Obviously, all this is in addition to taking the prescribed antibiotics to treat the underlying infection.

Helpful NHS information here: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pleurisy/Pages/Introduction.aspx

 

[newbs]

Thanks everyone - for your best wishes and advice 🙂.