Warning Signs Of Pleural Effusion

Loss Of Appetite

A pleural effusion is sometimes accompanied by a loss of appetite. This most commonly occurs with malignant pleural effusion, otherwise known as pleural effusion caused by cancer. Malignant pleural effusion causes serious shortness of breath and is often indicative of a poor cancer prognosis. Since the cancer is advanced, it tends to cause recurring pleural effusions rather than a single occurrence. By contrast, when the cause is a viral infection, the effusion generally subsides once the infection is treated. It may be difficult for patients to manage their pleural effusion, which may, in turn, lead to a reduction in the patient's quality of life.