Dr. A.K. Mandal, a leading pulmonologist in Mohali, specializes in diagnosing and treating pleural effusion. With extensive experience in respiratory care, Dr. Mandal provides cutting-edge treatment to help patients manage this condition effectively.

What is Pleural Effusion?

Pleural effusion, also known as "water around the lungs," occurs when excess fluid builds up between the layers of the pleura—the thin membrane surrounding the lungs. This buildup can make breathing difficult and may be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as infections, heart disease, or cancer.

Common Symptoms of Pleural Effusion:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain, especially during breathing or coughing
• Dry cough
• Fever or chills in cases of infection
• Difficulty lying flat due to discomfort

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a specialist like Dr. Mandal for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

Dr. Mandal uses advanced diagnostic techniques to determine the cause and extent of pleural effusion. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Physical Examination: Assessing breathing patterns, listening for abnormal lung sounds, and checking for other signs of fluid buildup.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound are often used to visualize the fluid in the pleural space.
• Thoracentesis: A minimally invasive procedure where a small needle is used to extract fluid from the pleural cavity for analysis. This test helps identify the underlying cause, such as infection, cancer, or inflammation.

Customized Treatment Options

Dr. Mandal offers personalized treatment options based on the cause, severity, and patient's overall health. Treatment may include:

• Thoracentesis: Immediate relief by draining the excess fluid from the pleural cavity. This procedure is often done to ease symptoms and improve lung function.
• Medical Thoracoscopy or Pleuroscopy: A minimally invasive, single-port endoscopic technique using rigid or semi-rigid thoracoscopy, which allows direct inspection of the pleural surfaces and enables both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
• Chest Tube Drainage: In cases where the effusion is recurrent or caused by infection, a chest tube may be placed to continuously drain the fluid.
• Pleurodesis: For patients with recurrent pleural effusion, this procedure involves sealing the pleural space to prevent further fluid buildup.
• Medication Management: Treating the underlying cause of pleural effusion, such as antibiotics for infections, diuretics for heart-related fluid buildup, or chemotherapy for cancer-related effusions.
• Surgical Intervention: In complex cases, surgical options like a pleurectomy (removal of part of the pleura) or a shunt (to redirect fluid) may be considered.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of pleural effusion, schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward better respiratory health with Dr. A.K. Mandal!