Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infection that mainly affects the lungs. Early tuberculosis diagnosis is important for your health and for stopping the spread of TB. A general physician can spot TB symptoms and guide you through testing for tuberculosis. In this guide, you will learn how general physicians diagnose TB, what signs to watch for, and what steps to take next.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These germs usually attack the lungs, but they can also affect other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs or sneezes. In many places, including crowded cities, TB is more common. However, anyone can get TB if exposed.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Early diagnosis of tuberculosis saves lives. When TB is found early, treatment works better and stops the infection from spreading. Also, starting treatment quickly helps prevent serious health problems. For these reasons, seeing a doctor as soon as you notice symptoms is very important.
Common Symptoms of Tuberculosis
TB can cause many symptoms. Sometimes, these signs are mild at first. However, they often get worse over time. Watch for these signs of tuberculosis in adults:
If you notice these symptoms, especially if you live in an area with high TB rates, you should see a doctor soon.
How General Physicians Diagnose Tuberculosis
General physicians follow a careful process to diagnose TB. Each step helps them find out if you have tuberculosis and what treatment you need. Let’s look at the TB testing process step by step.
Initial Patient Assessment
First, the doctor will ask about your symptoms. They may ask how long you have been coughing or if you have had a fever. In addition, they will want to know if you have been around anyone with TB. Your travel history and living conditions also matter. This information helps the doctor decide if TB is likely.
Physical Examination
Next, the doctor will examine you. They may listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. Sometimes, they check for swollen lymph nodes or other signs of infection. This exam gives more clues about your health.
Diagnostic Tests
After the exam, the doctor will order tests to confirm TB. Common TB testing process steps include:
Sometimes, the doctor may order more tests if the first ones are unclear. For example, they may use a CT scan or test other body fluids.
Interpreting Results
Once the test results are ready, the doctor reviews them. If the tests show TB bacteria or lung changes, you may have active TB. However, sometimes the results show you have been exposed but are not sick. In that case, the doctor may suggest treatment to prevent TB from becoming active. The doctor will explain what the results mean and what to do next.
When to See a Doctor
If you have a cough that lasts more than three weeks, see a general physician. Also, if you have fever, night sweats, or weight loss, do not wait. Early testing for tuberculosis helps protect you and others. Even if you are unsure, it is better to get checked.
Prevention and Next Steps
To prevent TB, cover your mouth when you cough, wash your hands often, and avoid close contact with people who are sick. In some places, vaccines help protect against TB. If you are diagnosed, follow your doctor’s advice and take all your medicine. This helps you get better and stops TB from spreading.
If you notice symptoms of tuberculosis, consult a general physician promptly for accurate diagnosis and care.
Sources: World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)