Follow-up examination several months after recovery from pleurisy

　　The follow-up examination interval after recovery from pleurisy should be determined based on the underlying cause, severity of the condition, and recovery progress. Generally, it is recommended to schedule the first follow-up visit at 3 months, although this may be adjusted appropriately in special circumstances. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　Follow-up examinations are crucial for monitoring recovery and can promptly detect issues such as pleural thickening, adhesions, or residual inflammation. For ordinary bacterial pleurisy, if treatment has been completed properly and recovery proceeds smoothly without complications, assessment with chest imaging and complete blood count at 3 months is usually sufficient. In cases of tuberculous pleurisy, due to its longer disease course, a follow-up evaluation is recommended 6 months after completion of anti-tuberculosis therapy, with particular attention to whether lung function has been affected. If complications arise during treatment, or if the patient has underlying conditions such as diabetes or immunodeficiency, the follow-up interval should be shortened to 1–2 months to allow timely adjustments to the management plan.

　　After recovery, patients should avoid excessive fatigue and engage in low-intensity exercises such as walking or tai chi to strengthen physical health. They should also stay warm and prevent respiratory infections. Diet-wise, increased intake of high-quality protein and vitamins is recommended to support tissue repair, and smokers must quit completely to reduce pulmonary irritation.