6. Pleuritic Pain: The Razor-Sharp Assailant
Just when you thought you had this SFT symptom thing figured out, in comes pleuritic pain. No, it’s not a chest pain twin; it’s its own unique brand of discomfort. While chest pain feels more localized, pleuritic pain gives you a sharp, stabbing sensation every time you take a breath.
How do you get to know it’s pleuritic pain? It starts with a sudden inhale, and you’re hit—sharp and fast, like an electric jolt. This is your pleura, a double-layered membrane around your lungs and chest cavity, not behaving as it should. It could be due to the tumor causing inflammation or irritation.
You start to notice the pain particularly when lying flat. Let’s say you go to bed and try to relax; forget about it. The stabbing sensation follows your breathing pattern. Inhale—pain. Exhale—relief. It’s almost rhythmic but in the most unpleasant way possible.(6)
