Pleurisy is inflammation of the moist layer of the lungs. It is caused by diseases like AIDS and cancer, infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis, chest injuries, and drug reactions. The main symptom is a sharp, stabbing pain in the side of the chest that worsens with movement and coughing, along with shortness of breath and fever. Treatments include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and pain killers to help relieve symptoms, though they do not provide a cure.