Pleurisy can usually be treated successfully by treating the underlying cause, but there are several possible causes and some are more complex than others. Pleural effusion, for example, is usually caused by heart failure; while the pleurisy can be treated by removing the fluid with a needle or tube, the heart failure itself will need more long-term treatment. Viral pleuritis, usually caused by the coxsackie B virus, will often clear up on its own. Sometimes a treatment may itself have a complication; for example, draining pus or fluid may cause a collapsed lung. Diuretics used to remove excess fluid from the body may cause side effects like hyponatremia (abnormally low sodium). Effects like these generally occur during treatment, while your condition is being monitored closely, and thus can be addressed right away.
Pleurisy
Also known as the Devil's fingers, pleurisy is a painful condition that you feel whenever you breathe in or out. Usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection of the pleural membranes, they become inflamed and rub or lose their lubricating capacity. Treatment may consist of anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and even restriction of lungs by binding the outside of the chest to prevent deep breathing and consequent pain.