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Pleurisy

Pleurisy is characterized by inflammation of the membranes lining the lungs and thoracic cavity (the pleura). The inflammation is usually caused by lung infections.

Symptoms of pleurisy usually manifest very suddenly. The primary symptom is pain during inhalation and/or coughing that can range from mild to severe, causing a stabbing sensation that can travel to the shoulder of the involved lung. Breathing usually becomes more rapid and shallow than usual, and motion on the side of the body that is affected can become limited.

What To Consider

Determining the cause of the lung infection is vital so that it can be properly addressed. Natural analgesics (pain relievers) and anti-inflammatories should also be used while symptoms persist.

Caution

Pleurisy-like symptoms can be a sign of lung cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or pulmonary embolism (blockage of a pulmonary artery by foreign matter). If these conditions are present, seek prompt medical attention.

Self-Care Tips

Diet
Follow an organic diet that emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables and fresh soups, and drink plenty of pure filtered water.

Nutritional Supplementation
The following supplements can help relieve symptoms and address related lung infection vitamin A, vitamin C with bioflavonoids, lung glandular, essential fatty acids, proteolytic enzymes, bromelain and colloidal silver.

Herbs
Mix equal parts of dried mullein and pleurisy root and drink as a hot infusion several times a day. In addition, combine the tinctures of pleurisy root, elecampane, and echinacea in equal parts and take one teaspoon of this mixture three times a day. Also, take either a clove or raw garlic or three capsules of garlic oil daily with each meal. Tumeric can also be helpful.

Homeopathy
Useful homeopathic remedies include: Aconite, Bryonia, Apis mel., Cantharis, Kali carb., Sulfur, Arsen alb., and Phosphorus.

Hydrotherapy
Alternate hot and cold water packs to the rib cage many times a day to improve circulation and drainage (30 seconds to a minute hot, followed by ten seconds cold). Repeat the alternations three to five times, finishing with cold.

Juice Therapy
The following juice combinations can be helpful: Carrot, celery, and parsley; carrot and pineapple; and carrot, beet, cucumber, and garlic.

Caution

If your symptoms persist despite the above measures, seek the help of a qualified health professional.

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