👉 Whenever fluid refers to a liquid that is present in or around the lungs and pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid plays a crucial role in lung function by reducing friction during breathing, allowing the lungs to expand and contract more smoothly. It also helps maintain negative pressure within the pleural cavity, which keeps the lungs inflated and prevents them from collapsing during exhalation. When there's an imbalance in the amount of this fluid, it can lead to conditions like pleural effusion (excess fluid) or pneumothorax (air in the pleural space, reducing the fluid's effect).
