fluid in lungs

My mother is 71, she had pericarditis and has recovered, but she now has a small amount of fluid in one lung. Nothing seems to get rid of it, including water pills, and she is extremely uncomfotable, especially when she tries to lay down.  Doctor doesn't seem to know what caused it, what to do, and she can barely do anything because of a lack of breath.  Any ideas?  Any tests we should specifically request?
Thanks

[National Jewish]

Your mother may not have completely recovered.  She may have what is called constrictive pericarditis.  She may have had what is called a cardiomyopathy along with the pericarditis.  Now she may be suffering from heart failure.  A cardiologist should examine her without delay.  An echocardiogram is the most likely test to be done.

[bactitech]

I'm assuming there's not enough there to tap off. We get pleural fluids all the time, but I'm sure it depends on how much there is and where it is on the lung (I work in a clinical laboratory).

I assume they're watching her closely. Ask about mechanically removing it - it won't be a fun procedure, though, and I'm sure there are risks.

Good luck.