How long will it take to recover from breathlessness?
Patient: I had a lung biopsy 6 days ago they let me go home and said I had pockets in the lung and to take it easy.  Im still short breathed but they said it would take awhile to get over it, how long does it take?Im a 68 year old female and just found out I had breast cancer and now lung cancer.  Thank you Doctor: Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic. I can understand your concern. You are diagnosed case of breast and lung cancer. Biopsy in lung cancer can cause pneumothorax. And this might be the cause for you breathlessness. Other possible causes of breathlessness in lung cancer patient are 1. Bronchitis 2. Malignant Pleural effusion 3. Pneumonia 4. Enlargement of underlying mass lesion. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system, chest x ray and PFT (pulmonary function test) first the diagnosis of these causes. You may need antibiotic, inhaled bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroids. Usual time for recovery after starting appropriate treatment is 1-2 months. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.