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?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Chandra P

General Practitioner

MBBS
5+ Yrs

Consult Now

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

Dr. Chandra Suggests...

Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Find a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

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I'm really concerned about the cigarette tar in my lungs. How long does it typically take for my body to flush it out? Are there any specific healthy diets or foods that could help speed up the process? I'm trying to make some positive changes and would appreciate any advice!

it around takes 2-3 years for lungs to remove these tars. Advised you should stop further smoking

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take steam inhalation

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I've been diagnosed with pleural effusion tuberculosis since March 5th, and the anti-TB treatment is underway. Can I safely be around my husband and have relations without risking passing the infection to him? Just trying to make sure he's safe too.

Pulmonologist opinion is advised to the patient.

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