Why Does Pleural Effusion Occur?

Leaking From Organs

Another likely cause of pleural effusion is leaking from organs, which is a relatively standard symptom of severe conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, and congestive heart failure. When fluid builds up within the affected organs, it's possible for this fluid to leak into the pleural space around the lungs, which means patients will be affected by pleural effusion. Since the underlying condition must be corrected before patients can experience relief from their symptoms, the only way to get rid of the fluid around the lungs is to treat their kidney disease or congestive heart failure. Each of these conditions can cause the organ to fail altogether, which is why early treatment is essential. In most cases, these diseases will occur over a lengthy period, which means symptoms will be gradual.

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Lung Cancer

It's possible for pleural effusion to occur due to lung cancer. This cancer begins in the lungs and typically occurs in individuals who smoke on a frequent basis. However, this cancer can happen even if someone has never smoked before. Quitting smoking can substantially increase an individual's chances of avoiding lung cancer. As with all types of cancer, the disease comes in the form of stages with symptoms becoming more severe at later stages. The main symptoms associated with this cancer include shortness of breath, coughing up blood, pleural effusion, rapid weight loss, headaches, bone pain, and a cough that won't go away. Early detection of lung cancer greatly increases the possibility of successful treatment.

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