Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is the inflammation of the pleura, which are a lining of the chest wall and a covering over the lungs. When these membranes become irritated or infected they can take the form of dry pleurisy, where there is no fluid build-up (that is, aside from the already existing fluid between the chest wall and the pleura over the lungs), or wet pleurisy, where such a build-up (called pleural effusion) occurs. The symptoms include sharp, sudden-onset, stabbing pain that becomes much more intense with the slightest motion; coughing, which also increases the pain; and frequently there is an accompanying fever, dependent on the condition's cause. Weakness, fatigue, difficulty in breathing (dyspnea) and even fainting are common as well.
In some cases, this condition is caused by a prior-existing infection, either bacterial or viral; in still others, an injury to the chest or lungs, or severe irritation such as encountered with industrial settings. Quite often, however, the cause is ideopathic--that infamous word physicians use that really is a fancy way of saying "who knows?" In many instances modern allopathic doctors insist that this disease does not even exist, and is merely a past way of labeling a variety of chest pains that now are known under different names, including some forms of heart disease, lupus, and deep vein thrombosis.
Others disagree; these are the medical personnel who take the time to check out the patient's description of the pain and conduct tests, ruling out the possibility of more dire diagnoses. Could it be some doctors are merely anxious to stick a name on something and write a prescription, even when they don't know the true underlying reason for an illness?
In holistic medicine the previously-mentioned reasons for pleurisy are legitimate, and so is one often overlooked: dehydration. When the pleura and the body in general are too dried out, irritation certainly occurs, thus creating perfect criteria for dry pleurisy. Further irritation can often induce more inflammation, turning into infection. Although pleurisy often starts out on one side only, it can spread to the other side as well. If untreated (by antibiotics, most often) it can deteriorate into pleural effusion and eventually pneumonia, and the lungs can even collapse.
For natural treatment of pleurisy, proper hydration is paramount. Herbal treatment is also effective, by such plants as pleurisy root (named for its effectiveness, obviously), and surprisingly, common celery--especially its seeds. Acupuncture and acupressure are also highly effective. Generally, rest and warmth in the chest area are important. The patient is advised, however, especially where pneumonia is concerned, not to lie flat if possible. Avoidance of sources of further respiratory infection is crucial.
Normally pleurisy will run its course in anywhere from a few days to, unfortunately, six months. It often will make a comeback once you've had it, especially during cold weather. Remember to keep well-hydrated to avoid this and any variety of lung infections. Trying to escape smog or occupational pollution are not always possible, but for those who having problems breathing in their environment the question must be asked: is it worth endangering your health, possibly eventually your very life, to stay there?
No matter if you've been told it's only flu, or your imagination, or countless other ailments, your pleurisy is real, it has a cause, and you can take care of yourself and recover. Never accept the prevailing attitude that you, the patient, know nothing and can't possibly be right.