Pleurisy

Description

Pleurisy is characterized by irritation of the membranes lining the lungs as well as thoracic cavity (the pleura).

Symptoms

The signs of pleurisy usually appear very quickly and can vary from mild to severe. The primary symptoms are coughing and painful breathing, but many individuals experience a stabbing sensation in the lungs as well. Breathing typically becomes very ragged and quicker than usual, while motion on the side of the body may become limited.

Cause

Pleurisy inflammation is usually caused by lung infections. Determining the exact cause of the lung infection is essential for proper treatment.
Extreme caution: Pleurisy symptoms can also be signs of lung cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or even a pulmonary embolism (blockage of the pulmonary artery by international matter). If these conditions are present, seek immediate medical attention.

Natural Remedies

Note: Natural analgesics (pain relievers) as well as anti-inflammatory should be used for as long as symptoms persist.

Diet: Follow an organic diet that emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables and clean soups, and drink lots of pure strained water.

Herbs: Mix equal parts of dried mullein and pleurisy root and consume as a warm infusion several times per day. Combine tinctures of pleurisy root, elecampane, and Echinacea and consume one teaspoon of this blend three times a day. Add a clove of garlic to each meal, or three capsules of garlic clove oil.
Homeopathy: Useful homeopathic remedies include: Aconite, Bryonia, Apis mel., Cantharis, Kali carb., Sulfur, Arsen alb., and Phosphorus.

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is the process of applying water, ice, steam and alternating cold and hot temperatures to restore health. Treatments include total body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation, and the application of warm and cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating an array of conditions and can easily be used in the home as part of a personal-treatment program. Many professionals including naturopathic physicians, physical therapists and day spas use Hydrotherapy as part of their treatment routines. We suggest trying several at home hydrotherapy remedies. Please seek the advice of an alternative healthcare practitioner prior to undergoing these treatments to ensure they are right for you.

*Purified water is essential in any Hydrotherapy remedy. Remedies involving purifying bath water offer clear instructions.

Juice Therapy: The following juice combinations is a good idea: Carrot, celery, and parsley; carrot as well as pineapple; as well as carrot, beet, cucumber, and garlic.

Dietary Supplementation: These supplements can help relieve signs and symptoms and tackle related lung infections: Vitamin A, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, lung glandulars, efa’s, proteolytic nutrients, bromelain as well as colloidal metal.

Alternative Professional Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the steps listed above, over measures, seek the help of a competent health professional. The following professional therapies have all proven to be useful in dealing with pleurisy: Acupuncture, Bodywork, Detoxification Therapy, Energy Medicine, Environmental Treatments, Magnetic Area Therapy, Naturopathic Medicine, Osteopathy, Oxygen Therapy, Qigong, Rolfing, and Chinese medicine. (See Glossary for explanations of these alternative therapies.)