Pleurodynia is a viral infection that primarily affects the muscles of the chest and the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura. This condition often manifests with sudden, intense chest pain, which can be alarming due to its severity. Also referred to as Bornholm disease or epidemic pleurodynia, it is characterized by sharp, spasmodic pain. The term itself combines “pleur,” meaning side, and “dynia,” meaning pain, accurately describing its primary symptom.
What Causes Pleurodynia
Pleurodynia is most frequently caused by certain types of viruses, predominantly Coxsackievirus B. This virus, an enterovirus, typically spreads through various routes, including the fecal-oral route, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated objects. While Coxsackievirus B is the primary culprit, other enteroviruses such as Coxsackievirus A and various echoviruses can also lead to pleurodynia. The infection often shows a seasonal pattern, with outbreaks commonly occurring during summer and early fall. After exposure, symptoms typically develop within about four days, although the incubation period can range from two to six days.
Common Signs and Discomfort
The most prominent symptom of pleurodynia is severe chest pain, which often appears suddenly and is worsened by deep breathing, coughing, sneezing, or movement. It typically affects one side of the chest, often near the lower ribs, but can sometimes extend to the neck or arms. The pain frequently occurs in spasms. Between these intense bouts, individuals may experience a constant, dull ache in the affected area. Beyond chest pain, other common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a general feeling of unwellness.
How Doctors Confirm Pleurodynia
Diagnosing pleurodynia primarily relies on a clinical evaluation, including a thorough review of the patient’s symptoms and a physical examination. During the examination, a doctor may check for tenderness in the chest muscles. The sudden onset of characteristic chest pain often raises suspicion for pleurodynia. Healthcare providers may order imaging tests, such as a chest X-ray, to exclude other more serious conditions that cause chest pain, including pneumonia, a heart condition, or a pulmonary embolism. In cases of pleurodynia, the chest X-ray typically appears normal.
Relieving Symptoms and Recovery
As pleurodynia is a self-limiting viral infection, there is no specific antiviral medication; management focuses on alleviating symptoms until the illness resolves on its own. Rest is important for recovery. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and applying warm packs to the tender areas of the chest can also provide some relief. The condition usually resolves within a few days to a week. If chest pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by concerning symptoms, seeking medical attention is important to rule out other possible causes.