Pleural effusion, often called “water in the lungs,” occurs when excess fluid collects between the layers of the pleura—the thin membranes lining the lungs and chest cavity. Everyone has some amount of liquid in their pleura, but when it builds up, it can compress the lung, making breathing difficult.
This is caused by fluid leaking into the pleural space from increased pressure in blood vessels or a low protein count. It’s often caused by heart failure.
This is caused by fluid leaking into the pleural space from increased pressure in blood vessels or a low protein count. It’s often caused by heart failure.
Patients with pleural effusion might experience:
Pleural effusion can result from various underlying conditions, including:
Anybody can develop blood clots, but there are certain factors that can increase risk, such as:
At Texas IPS, our team of dedicated clinicians use a patient-centered approach to evaluate the risk for pulmonary embolism. They treat this condition with compassion, care, and expertise to ensure the best possible outcome for every patient. Our expert physicians can evaluate patients for pulmonary embolism in our conveniently located office, and only if necessary, will treat a patient in the hospital.
Whether a pulmonary embolism is the cause of a hospital admission or one develops during a hospital stay, a PE doesn’t just require acute care at the time of diagnosis—it requires ongoing medical care throughout a patient’s lifetime. Choosing a physician who understands PE and can offer long-term, advanced care is key to managing this chronic condition. Texas IPS will provide compassionate care in the convenience of one location.
Texas IPS offers following-day appointments with services like echocardiograms, leg ultrasounds to scan for clots, and electrocardiograms, with scheduled follow-up appointments.
Our expert clinicians can guide patients through treatment, monitor for development of chronic issues, and assess risk for future thrombus development.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial and typically involves:
Our specialists at Texas IPS provide tailored care based on the underlying cause and severity of your pleural effusion. Treatment options include:
Patients may be referred to Texas IPS’s Pleural Effusion Program if they fit one or more of the following:
Medical Director, Lung Cancer Service Line
Pulmonary Care
Critical Care
Interventional Bronchoscopy
Lung Nodule/Cancer Clinic
Have questions or need to speak with our team? Give us a call — we’re here to help.
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