A chest X-ray can show changes in the lungs that suggest TB. It is useful for screening and supports diagnosis, but TB is confirmed by testing a sample such as sputum.
हिंदी में सार
छाती का एक्स-रे फेफड़ों में ऐसे बदलाव दिखा सकता है जो टीबी की ओर इशारा करें। एक्स-रे जाँच में मदद करता है, लेकिन टीबी की पक्की पुष्टि बलगम या दूसरे सैंपल की जाँच से होती है। एक्स-रे में बदलाव दिखे तो डॉक्टर बलगम की जाँच करवाएँगे।
What an X-ray can and cannot do
| Can | Cannot |
|---|---|
| Show changes that suggest TB | Prove that the changes are TB |
| Find people who need a TB test, even without symptoms | Tell whether the bacteria are drug-resistant |
| Help assess TB outside the lungs, with other scans | Replace a sputum or sample test |
The NTEP lists an abnormal chest X-ray as one of the common signs of TB. In the 100-day TB Mukt Bharat campaign from December 2024, the Health Ministry used portable, AI-enabled X-ray units to screen high-risk groups whether or not they had symptoms.
If your X-ray shows TB-like changes
Get a sputum test
The doctor will ask for NAAT on your sputum to confirm TB and check for drug resistance.
Do not start medicines on your own
TB medicines must be started by a doctor after a diagnosis, and you should be notified on Ni-kshay to get free medicines and support.
Old scars
People who had TB before may have scars on the X-ray. Tell the doctor about any past TB treatment.
Symptoms alone cannot tell you whether you have TB. If you have a cough or fever for 2 weeks or more, weight loss, night sweats or blood in your phlegm, go to your nearest government health facility and ask for a TB test. TB testing and treatment are free there.
Free TB helpline Ni-kshay Sampark: 1800-11-6666.
Should I get tested?Answer a few yes or no questions based on the official TB warning signs. Nothing is saved.
Start the checklistFrequently asked questions
Can an X-ray be normal in TB?
Yes, sometimes, especially early or in TB outside the lungs. If symptoms continue, ask for a test.
I am pregnant. Can I have a chest X-ray?
Tell the staff you are pregnant before any X-ray, so the doctor can decide what is right for you.
Is the X-ray free?
TB tests are free at government health facilities. Ask the facility about X-ray availability.
Medical review note. Written from official TB programme guidelines; last checked 16 October 2026. This is general information, not medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, see a doctor at your nearest government health facility.