- Male
- 34 Years
- 22/01/2025
Could you help me understand if a normal chest X-ray taken two months after being around someone with TB means I definitely don't have pulmonary TB? Also, can a chest X-ray reliably catch pulmonary TB, or should I be doing other tests? I'm a bit worried and just want to be sure.
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
Yes,chest x-ray and sputum for AFB and microscopy is advised to the patient for the diagnosis of tb.
Dr. Dr Khaleel Suggests...
Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
Answered 04/07/2025
0
0
Ask Apollo
AI powered Health Chatbot
-
Understanding Chest X-ray Limitations
- A normal chest X-ray is reassuring but does not completely rule out pulmonary TB, especially in early or latent stages.
-
Role of Additional Tests
- Consider sputum smear microscopy, culture tests, and molecular tests (e.g., GeneXpert) for more definitive detection of active TB.
-
Latent vs Active TB
- Latent TB may not show on X-ray, unlike active TB, which often presents with visible abnormalities.
-
Follow-up Recommendations
- Monitor symptoms and repeat tests if symptoms develop. Consult a healthcare provider for tailored advice.
-
Importance of Medical Evaluation
- Professional evaluation is crucial, especially after recent exposure, to decide on preventive therapy or further investigations.
-
Relevant Medical Specialties
- Consult with pulmonologists or infectious disease specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
-
Summary
- While a normal X-ray is a good sign, further tests may be needed to definitively rule out TB.
Recommended next steps
Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist or Take a GENEXPERT CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE DETECTION Test
Answered 20/08/2025
0
0
More Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine Health Queries
View allI've recently quit smoking and I'm really concerned about how to naturally cleanse my lungs from all that tar buildup. Also, I'm curious about which vitamins and minerals are best for keeping my lungs healthy now. Can you offer any advice?
To naturally remove tar from lungs after quitting smoking, try steam inhalation, drink plenty of water, eat antioxidant-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and other fruits, and consider supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids; also, incorporate lung-friendly minerals like Magnesium, Potassium, and Selenium into your diet, and practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to promote healthy lung function.
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
I'm really worried because I've had pleural fluid drained using a tube, and despite having all the tests done and taking the medications prescribed by the doctor, there's no noticeable improvement. Could there be something else that's causing this lack of progress? What should I do next?
fluid can buildup again if ubhave withdraw more
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
I've had a minimal PTB condition about 20 years ago and completed all the meds back then, but my latest X-ray just came back saying there's minimal PTB in the left upper lobe with undetermined activity. Should I be concerned about this result? What does 'undetermined activity' mean and could the PTB have come back, or could it be something else? I'm really worried and would appreciate your advice on what steps I should take next.
CONSULT A PULMONOLOGIST. TAKE ATT. T.B CAN BE RECURRENT.SO DON'T BE LATE.
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
Health Articles for you
View all
Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.