Pleurisy is an inflammation of the investing membrane of the lungs. It is caused by some functional derangement of other organs of the body.

Symptoms

Pleurisy usually begins with some sharp, stitch-like pain in the chest, which, for a time, increases with each breath. The pulse becomes quickened, the breathing is rapid and difficult. Temperature ranges from 100 to 104 and is usually accompanied by a short, dry cough, that is very distressing. The attacks sometimes begin with a chill, and such cases are difficult to distinguish from pneumonia.

Diet

The derangement of other organs that cause pleurisy should be ascertained and the diet adapted.