Pleurodynia in 2025: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Cost Insights

Introduction to Pleurodynia

Pleurodynia, also known as Bornholm disease or epidemic myalgia, is a contagious viral infection characterized by flu-like symptoms combined with sharp chest or abdominal pain. This condition typically resolves on its own, but understanding its symptoms and management is crucial for faster recovery.

Explore this comprehensive guide to learn about Pleurodynia's causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and modern treatment options in 2024.

Recognizing Pleurodynia Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear within days after viral exposure and can onset suddenly. While the illness often lasts only a few days, some individuals may experience symptoms for up to three weeks or intermittent episodes over several weeks.

The hallmark symptom is intense, often one-sided chest or upper abdominal pain, which can be sharp or stabbing. This pain may worsen with deep breaths, coughing, or movement and can sometimes make breathing difficult. Between painful episodes, a dull ache may persist.

Additional symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

If you experience sudden or severe chest pain, immediate medical evaluation is essential to rule out serious heart conditions like pericarditis. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should be particularly vigilant, as Pleurodynia can pose greater risks in these groups.

Causes of Pleurodynia

Pleurodynia is caused by enteroviruses, primarily Coxsackievirus A and B, and echoviruses. These viruses inflame muscles in the chest and upper abdomen, producing characteristic pain.

Enteroviruses are highly contagious and spread through:

• Contact with fecal matter or respiratory secretions from infected individuals
• Touching contaminated objects and then touching the face
• Consuming contaminated food or beverages
• Inhaling droplets from coughs or sneezes (less common)

Outbreaks frequently occur in crowded settings such as schools and childcare centers.

Diagnosing Pleurodynia

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on symptom presentation and potential exposure during outbreaks. To exclude other causes of chest pain, doctors may order tests to evaluate heart and lung health.

In newborns and pregnant women, laboratory tests such as viral cultures or antibody blood tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Modern Treatment Approaches for Pleurodynia

Since Pleurodynia is viral, antibiotics are ineffective. Treatment focuses on symptom relief using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Aspirin should be avoided in children due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

For newborns at risk of severe illness, immunoglobulin therapy may be administered to boost immunity and reduce complications.

Prognosis and Recovery

Most healthy individuals recover fully within days to weeks without complications. However, Pleurodynia can cause serious issues in newborns, requiring immediate medical care.

Possible but rare complications include:

• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• Heart inflammation (pericarditis, myocarditis)
• Brain inflammation (meningitis)
• Liver inflammation (hepatitis)
• Testicular inflammation (orchitis)

Preventing Pleurodynia in 2024

No vaccine currently exists for Pleurodynia-causing viruses. Prevention relies on strict hygiene practices:

• Frequent handwashing, especially after restroom use or diaper changes
• Avoid sharing personal items
• Proper food handling and avoiding contaminated food or drink
• Minimizing close contact with infected individuals

By following these measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection and protect those around you.

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