My brother was diagnosed with pleural effusion and the doctor recommended surgery. Is surgery really necessary or can it be treated with medications? What causes this condition and is it life-threatening? Could it be related to TB? I've attached the reports for reference.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

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Answered 14/08/2025

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I'm really concerned about this cold and cough that keeps coming back, especially with breathing problems at night and in the early morning for the past three weeks. I saw a general physician and the medicine worked for a week, but the breathing issue starts up again as soon as I stop taking it. What should I do about this?

It sounds like you may have asthma or an allergic airway condition triggered by cold or night-time air. I recommend consulting a pulmonologist for a proper evaluation, including spirometry. Continuing appropriate long-term treatment, like inhalers, may help prevent recurrence.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I've been having breathing issues and often get a congested nose. A doctor once told me I have sinus problems. I sometimes get headaches in the evening, but they're not too bad. Ive been smoking for about 9 or 10 years. Occasionally, I experience chest pain for a couple of days, but it usually just goes away and isn't that frequent. Should I be worried about lung cancer? What are the symptoms I should be looking out for?

if you are worried about cancer get ct scan of chest and

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm really worried about confirming if I have tuberculosis. Can I get a TB Gold test to make sure?

Yes.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

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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.