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Published on: 11/27/2025
How is pleural effusion treated, and can removing the fluid help breathing?
Pleural effusion is treated by removing the fluid from the chest, which can help improve breathing by allowing the lungs to expand better.
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Pleural effusion is when fluid builds up in the space around the lungs. This can make it hard to breathe. One way to treat this is by removing the fluid, which can help the lungs have more room to expand.
Treatment Options:
- Thoracentesis: This is a procedure where a needle is used to take out the fluid.
- Chest Tube Drainage: In more serious cases, a tube might be placed in the chest to keep draining the fluid over time.
Removing the fluid can help people breathe better. Studies have shown that when the fluid is drained, oxygen levels can improve, and people can feel more comfortable. It is important to talk to a doctor to choose the best treatment option.
(References)
- Karkhanis VS, & Joshi JM. (2012). Pleural effusion: diagnosis, treatment, and management. Open access emergency medicine : OAEM, 27147861.
- Razazi K, Thille AW, Carteaux G, Beji O, Brun-Buisson C, Brochard L, & Mekontso Dessap A. (2014). Effects of pleural effusion drainage on oxygenation .... Annals of the American Thoracic Society, 25079591.
- Talmor M, Hydo L, Gershenwald JG, & Barie PS. (1998). Beneficial effects of chest tube drainage of pleural effusion .... Surgery, 9481398.
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