The symptoms of TB can take a long time to appear.
When that happens, the organism absolutely needs help. At first, a simple but persistent cough can develop. Progressively, other symptoms can appear:
- an unusual cough that persists for more than two weeks;
- blood in expectorations;
- loss of appetite and weight;
- fever;
- chest pains when breathing;
- night sweats;
- weakness and fatigue.
A person with one or more of these symptoms must visit the CLSC immediately.
In case TB is suspected, several tests can be performed to diagnose the disease, including a skin test, an analysis of expectorations and a lung X-ray. The results of certain tests are available within 48 to 72 hours. If the tests confirm latent TB, medications are proposed to eliminate the microbes from the body and prevent the active form of the disease. In the case of active TB, hospitalization may be necessary and obligatory treatment will be required.