Question 1

I've got pleural effusion in both lungs, but it's more serious on the right side. Ever since February 5th, I've had a bit of chest pain on the right side. They diagnosed me with TB on March 5th, and since then, I've been on ATT and later switched to the DOTS program on March 15th. They even drew out 250ml of fluid from my right lung on March 5th. My chest X-ray looked fine on March 1st, probably because there wasn't much fluid, but the one from April 1st shows my lower and middle lung lobes as kind of blurry or like they're collapsing. I've attached the X-ray. Is it normal for things to look worse after starting ATT? Should I be doing something specific or take extra precautions? Also, my breathing has gotten worse. I'm getting plenty of rest and eating a high-protein diet, but I'm really concerned. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

after att medication, it won't become normal immediately . It takes time for chest xray to be normal.

Question 2

I'm really worried and need some advice. For the past three months, I've been waking up every morning with brown phlegm, but the rest of the day it's clear. It's coming from my throat, and I dont have a cough. I don't smoke, and I live in a calm area with low pollution and a humid climate. It's really freaking me out, and I can't shake the feeling that something might be seriously wrong. Should I be worried? Are there any home remedies that might help?

Accepted Answer

Spitting brown phlegm in the morning can be alarming, but it's often treatable. Given your symptoms and environment, here are possible causes:

*Possible Causes*

1. *Postnasal drip*: Mucus from your nose can drip down the back of your throat, causing brown phlegm.
2. *Acid reflux*: Stomach acid can flow up into your throat, causing inflammation and brown phlegm.
3. *Allergies*: Seasonal or environmental allergies can trigger excess mucus production.
4. *Sinusitis*: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause thick, discolored mucus.

*Home Remedies*

1. *Stay hydrated*: Drink plenty of water to thin out mucus.
2. *Saline gargle*: Mix 14 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gargle several times a day.
3. *Honey and lemon*: Mix equal parts honey and lemon juice in warm water to soothe your throat.
4. *Elevate your head*: Sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce postnasal drip.

*Medical Consultation*

If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult an *ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist* or a *primary care physician*. They may recommend:

1. *Nasal endoscopy*: To examine your nasal passages and sinuses.
2. *Throat swab*: To check for infections.
3. *Acid reflux testing*: To diagnose acid reflux.
4. *Allergy testing*: To identify potential allergens.

Question 3

Hey, I hope you can help me out here. I recently moved from Kolkata to Assam, and I'm having a tough time finding the medications I've been prescribed. I used to take Digihaler FB200, Cilapam LS, and Clonil 10 in Kolkata, but none of the pharmacies around here seem to stock them. Can you suggest any alternatives with the same ingredients? Im quite worried because I need to continue my treatment without interruption.

Accepted Answer

instead of digihaler, use foracort inhaler . rest ask for the same medicine

I'm really worried about my friend whos experiencing severe wheezing and cant even get up to go to the hospital. Are there any home remedies or quick things we can try to help them feel a bit better before seeking professional help?

sit upright position, use humidifier, provid oxygen if available

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