What conditions can cause pleural effusion in the first place?

Pleural effusion is when fluid collects in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This can happen for several reasons.

Common Causes:

1. Heart Failure: The heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should, leading to fluid buildup.
2. Infections: Conditions like pneumonia can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation.
3. Cancer: Certain cancers can spread to the pleura, the lining around the lungs, causing fluid to gather.
4. Kidney or Liver Disease: These can lead to fluid retention in the body, including the chest area.

Less Common Causes:

• Pulmonary Embolism: A blockage in the lung's blood vessels can cause fluid to leak into the pleural space.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and fluid buildup.

Pleural effusion can make it hard to breathe and might need treatment to remove the fluid and address the underlying cause.