hi there, I had swollen area on my left side of the neck, so I went to the doctor and got it checked. He said it is most probably tb and then sent me for an x-ray. After looking at the x-ray, he said there is some formation of fluid area in my lungs, which he said is not normal for my age (i.e. 24 yrs). Also as I am from asian subcontinent, he said its the most probably tb. He then referred me to a Chest specialist. But the appointment with chest specialist is after three weeks. The swelling in the neck in the meanwhile is still increasing and im loosing weight as well. I feel really weak as well. My question whether I should go to doctor the increased swelling, also what is the likely course of action by the specialist, as I have read that the definitve test for tb takes two to three week, I cant wait any longer, I am loosing my physical strenght and stamina everyday. Is it possible to start any intermediate treatment till diagnosis is confirmed?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of tubercular cervical lymph node and pleural effusion is more likely. Better to get done fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and pleural fluid aspiration and reports. These will take only 2-3 days. Course of anti-tubercular Chat Doctor.  So try to consult pulmonologist as soon as possible and start anti-tubercular