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Which pleura is painful?

Published in Respiratory System 1 min read

The pleura, when inflamed, is painful. This condition is known as pleurisy.

Understanding the Pleura and Pleurisy

The reference provided defines the pleura and explains pleurisy:

Pleurisy (PLOOR-ih-see) is a condition in which the pleura — two large, thin layers of tissue that separate your lungs from your chest wall — becomes inflamed. Also called pleuritis, pleurisy causes sharp chest pain (pleuritic pain) that worsens during breathing.

What is the Pleura?

The pleura consists of two layers of tissue that surround each lung:

  • Visceral pleura: This layer covers the lung itself.
  • Parietal pleura: This layer lines the inner chest wall.

Normally, these layers are separated by a thin space containing a small amount of fluid, which allows them to glide smoothly against each other during breathing.

Pleurisy: Inflammation of the Pleura

Pleurisy occurs when the pleura becomes inflamed. This inflammation causes the pleural layers to rub together, resulting in sharp chest pain, especially during breathing. The reference states that pleuritic pain worsens during breathing.

Conclusion

In pleurisy, the inflammation of either or both layers of the pleura (visceral or parietal) is what causes pain. The pain arises from the inflamed layers rubbing against each other.