Treatment. Sometimes the best course of action is to treat the underlying condition. If an infection is the cause, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or for congestive heart failure, a medication to reduce sodium and water in the body. . It may be necessary to drain the fluid. This can be accomplished by placing a tube through a small cut in the chest for a few days. A long-term catheter may be inserted so that the patient can drain the fluid at home when needed. Pleurodesis may be performed, which is the injection of an irritant that causes the chest wall and pleural tissues to scar. This binds them together during healing and makes it more difficult for fluids to accumulate. Surgery may also be needed to remove unhealthy tissue.
