Chemical Pleurodesis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
Pleurodesis is a procedure to remove air or fluid buildup in the pleural space in your chest. After the procedure, you may feel pain inside your chest or at your incision site. This is normal and should go away in time.
 |
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have chest pain that gets worse.
- You have shortness of breath.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- Your incision site is red, swollen, or warm to the touch.
- You feel dizzy.
- You cough more than usual.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Wound care:
Care for your wound as directed. You may be told it is okay to shower after 2 days. Carefully wash the wound with soap and water. Gently pat the area dry and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty. Do not take a bath or swim for 2 weeks, or until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
Self-care:
- Limit your activity. Rest when you feel it is needed. Slowly start to do more each day. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to work, drive, or travel by airplane.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can worsen your symptoms and cause lung damage. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
You may need to have another chest x-ray or CT scan to check your lungs after pleurodesis. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
