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No cause found for persistent pleural effusions
Lung Health | Last Active: Jan 2, 2023 | Replies (26)Comment receiving replies
Sorry you're going through this. Our circumstances seem different, but yes I had some significant pain on occasion. They would take +/- 2 liters at a time from either lung, but a couple times I got a very sharp painful stab at the tap location. They decided not to draw down the fluid so much. Once my BP dropped so low they rushed me into the ER. They began to lower my head as soon as the tap was done to prevent the BP drop. The pleurodesis (talc) seems to have worked, breathing is better but not great. Last CT shows that the pockets of remaining fluid are holding steady or reducing. Good luck.
Replies to "Sorry you're going through this. Our circumstances seem different, but yes I had some significant pain..."
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Thanks for responding and the info. Rob, it helps. I don’t think my BP drops, haven’t checked it, but that could account for why I feel exhausted after we draw. I’m thinking we are only getting about half the fluid off before the pain starts. My breathing is not good but doesn’t seem to improve or worsen after we draw. Looks like we will just have to live with this for the time being and will continue to stop the draw when the pain starts. I’m still undecided about pleurodesis. Hoping to see a thoracic surgeon when we return home next month to further discuss pleurodesis. What color is the fluid when you draw and has the color changed? Mine is dark bloody color and remained consistent, except for when I had radiation on the left lung, and then it turned several shades darker. It has since returned to the previous color. Man, this stuff has sure been a life changer. I even gave up my motorcycle and haven’t been in a bar fight for almost 2 years LOL..Thanks again, take care of yourself.. Dutch