Pleurisy is inflammation of the lining around the lungs. It is a painful condition that can make breathing difficult. If you experience the symptoms of pleurisy, you should consult with your doctor. It can be the sign of serious underlying illness. The key to relief from pleurisy symptoms is reducing the inflammation. Cold therapy can be an important part of treatment.

Understanding Pleurisy

The pleura is the moist membrane around the lungs. It has two layers. One layer lines the ribcage and the other layer surrounds the lungs. When the pleura is healthy, it facilitates smooth, comfortable movement inside your chest as you breathe.

In dry pleurisy, also called pleuritis, the pleura is inflamed, making breathing very painful.

In wet pleurisy the pleura is inflamed and there is a build-up of fluid (edema). This fluid build-up is also called pleural effusion. Pleural effusion can constrict the lungs, making it very difficult to breathe.

Causes of Pleurisy

Sometimes the cause of pleurisy is never discovered. Common causes include:

• Virus or bacterial infection
• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis
• Lung abscess
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Pulmonary embolism
• Pancreatitis
• Sickle cell crisis
• Tumor in the pleura
• Asbestos exposure
• Injury or trauma to the chest, including fractured rib from excessive coughing
• Complication of heart surgery
• Certain medications

Treating Pleurisy

Pleurisy is usually a symptom of another condition, and you should talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and make sure that you are not in danger. Of course, if the underlying condition can be treated or corrected that should ultimately resolve your pleurisy. In the meantime, you can get relief from pleurisy symptoms by reducing the inflammation.

I.C.E. DOWN ice wraps can reduce the inflammation, reducing your pain and discomfort without the side effects of NSAIDs and other pain medications. Ice wraps can also be used in conjunction with your medications to increase your comfort without increasing your dose.

If you suffer from chronic or recurring pleurisy, due to ongoing health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, cold therapy is a safe and effective alternative to long-term use of drugs which can be debilitating while you use them, harmful to your body when used long-term, and which some people simply cannot tolerate due to the immediate side effects.

Cold therapy brings down the inflammation which causes the pain and directly treats the pain by reducing the pain signals sent to your brain.

Breaking the Cycle of Inflammation

Inflammation of the pleura causes the membranes to rub together like sandpaper, causing more irritation and inflammation. It can become a vicious cycle, a self-feeding condition. By bringing down the inflammation, you not only get some relief, you can break the cycle.

To learn more about I.C.E. DOWN ice wraps for pleurisy, or to place an order, please visit our online store today.