Pleurisy may also be called pleuritis and can be treated in different ways.  First, treat the underlying cause, such as tuberculosis.  You can also use anti-inflammatory medications, along with addition medication to deal with the pain.  You can also use antibiotics if the problem is caused by a bacterial infection, or you may need the physician to drain the excess fluid, in the case of pleural effusion.   

If your pleurisy is caused by a viral infection, it will generally get better in 2-3 days on its own, without treatment from your doctor.  If your pleurisy is caused by a bacterial infection, you may need your doctor to prescribe antibiotics, but if there are other underlying conditions, you should see your doctor.   

Pleurisy comes from the Greek, pleura, to the Latin, pleuritis, to Old French, pleurisie, to Late Middle English, pleurisy.