Hi Beaaaxz. I had pleural effusion before treatment, as well as ascites in the abdominal cavity. The pleural effusion, where the ascites accumulates in the cavity around the lungs was very tiring. I found it difficult to stand or walk for more than a few minutes. It interfered with breathing, and I was admitted to the hospital for nine days because as the ER doctor told me, I wasn't getting enough oxygen in my blood to maintain my vital organs. They put a drain in my back to remove the liquid. At the same time I also had ascites in my abdomen which was uncomfortable, and I could only sleep on my back. My belly swelled up and i looked pregnant.
After nine days, I was discharged - and I had received confirmation that the debulking surgery was planned for the following month at a different hospital. However when I went there for the pre-admission process, they saw that the pleural effusion had come back so I admitted early for the surgery and spent another 9 days in hospital. They again placed a drain in my back. But, once I had the surgery and the tumour was removed, the situation resolved itself. I also lost a lot of weight.
Generally there was discomfort and the drains at times were painful. It was difficult to function with the pleural effusion, it made me weak and very tired.