“Pleural effusion ”
Today I went to the emergency room for pain in my shoulder and on an X-ray they found what the doctor called a minuscule amount of fluid, pleural effusion. They did a BNP blood test which came back at 120. I am 39 years old. I don't have any problem breathing or any chest pain or anything but after reading about plural effusion I am terrified. I've made an appointment with a cardiologist but it's not for a while and I don't know how long I can handle this anxiety. Can you give me any insight that might ease my worries? I did have covid about 2 months ago, I have been vaccinated, I am taking clarithromycin for a sinus infection and am anemic if that matters. I am a mom of two toddlers and don't want to die. Thank you so much!
Female | 39 years old
Complaint duration: 01 day
Medications: Lexapro, levothyroxine, Hailey 24
Conditions: Anxiety, hypothyroidism
2 Answers
Cardiologist
A pleural effusion is best addressed by a pulmonologist (lung doctor).
I can understand how scary this must be!
There are many causes of pleural effusions
Typically if related to the heart it would be bilateral (in both lungs)
If oj one side and in the setting of recent infection, it may be related to that and typically will resolved on its own
I’d follow up with your doctor so they can follow you for symptom management and determine if any further workup is needed
There are many causes of pleural effusions
Typically if related to the heart it would be bilateral (in both lungs)
If oj one side and in the setting of recent infection, it may be related to that and typically will resolved on its own
I’d follow up with your doctor so they can follow you for symptom management and determine if any further workup is needed
