Hi Jan 

i haven't personally had a pleural effusion drain but I took my dad to get his when his mesothelioma caused huge pleural effusions around his left lung

the procedure itself was relatively simple 

your doctor will explain any risks to you in terms of infection or pain but it was similar to the regular draining he was undergoing at that point and he told me not  not too bad at all 

the result however was fantastic 

the ability to drain the effusion at home when he needed to was wonderful 

it improved his quality of life enormously 

i hope this helps a little to settle any nerves 

if you have questions just let me know 

Thank you so much for your reply. I had the drain done on Thursday and, like you say, it was relatively straight forward. 

I'm a bit sore today, but the difference it has made to my breathing is amazing, I didn't realise how bad it was!

At least now I know, and if it's needed again I won't be as worried!

Thanks again for getting in touch.

Jan