Pain management and reassurance over possible pleurisy diagnosis?

[cazzie1dav]

I've been poorly now for 2 weeks with severe shortness of breath. Was firstly diagnosed with a chest infection and given 7 days of antibiotics however that didmt work. Paramedics were called out on Friday due to awful stabbing pains in the centre of my chest and right side. She could still.here crackles but also 'rubbing'suggesting it could be pleurisy. I was prescribed more antibiotics and codeine for the pain. Drs have told me to "ride it out" so haven't given me any reassurance so that's why I am here. The stabbing pains in the centre of your chest how can I deal with these? (Only when I breathe in and out) I have been using a water bottle for my side but it makes no different to central pain. Also how long can I expect to feel like this? I have 2 little boys who need their mummy and a mummy who needs them! Any advice welcome, I'm so anxious and fed up of feeling like this now!

[Katinka46]

You are in a very difficult situation, and I am not surprised you are worried. I think you need more support from doctors. Can you contact your GP?

There is very little we can do here apart from listen to your story. Are you alone or do you have family around you?

Let us know how things develop.

Kate x

[cazzie1dav in reply to Katinka46]

Hi thank you replying. The GP has been horrendous and just told me to ride it out. I have my husband (who has been a god send) but also have 2 very young little boys! I'm just hoping the antibiotics will help.

[Badbessie]

Sadly I have had many episodes of pleurisy. Unfortunately it can take many weeks to settle. From memory one of my episodes lasted six weeks. I can sympathise with you the pain is horrible but the only things I found helps are rest, pain relief and a gentle heat over the painful area. Trying to rush recovery in my experience only increases the amount of time it takes to recover.

[cazzie1dav in reply to Badbessie]

Thankyou for your reply

[Daddy187 in reply to Badbessie]

I am just leaving hospital today 14 days i here with pleursey I been told my ribs will hurt when I cough and to put rolled up towel on my rib gage when coughing feeling totally burnt out hopefully it will pass

[pete45]

I do know what you are going through but to have a doctor suggest you ride it out means he is clueless about the amount of pain. Can you switch doctors?

[Caspiana]

Ugh.... 😐 I am so sorry to read this cazzie1dav . It must be heart wrenching thinking about your two boys. I don't really known what to suggest but better pain management. Doctors can be terribly clueless because most of what they know is theory not helpful at all for us whom are suffering with the "practical" side of illness. Luckily your husband is looking after your little ones, and although frustrating that you cannot at the moment, you must give yourself ample time to heal.

Thinking of you,

Cas xx🍀🐞🍃🌼

[cazzie1dav]

I spoke to the GP who first saw me 2 weeks ago. He was excellent. He has prescribed me with a new inhaler Fostair 200/6 and is now doing daily over the phone consultations until I am over the worst. Timing to get an illness like this is not great as you are also classed as a Covid patient and no body will see you! However he has also told me to start taking ibuprofen as that should help with the inflammation. A bit concerning as 'covid patients' are told not to take them. Would you take them? I appreciate all.your responses!