Tuberculosis (TB) is an extremely serious disease resulting from the bacterial Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. It belongs to the group of infectious diseases characterized by the above, mainly affecting the lungs; however, other parts like the kidneys, spine, and brain may also be affected. TB has often been considered extinct, but it is still a public health problem in many areas, including Las Vegas. If early detection and treatment can’t be achieved, complications occur, and the disease spreads.
For your accurate TB testing services in Las Vegas, Sahara West Urgent Care is your safest bet, with dependable TB services near you using modern diagnostics and a caring team.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis symptoms can depend on whether the disease itself is active or latent. Below are the most common signs to watch for:
- Persistent Cough
One of the earliest signs of active TB is often a cough that lasts more than three weeks. It may result in phlegm or mucus coughed up (exectorated) and in some cases, may be bloody.
- Chest Pain
Lung infection may cause chest pain that worsens when you breathe or cough. You shouldn’t ignore this symptom.
- Fever and Night Sweats
Symptoms of TB frequently include a persistent low-grade fever. Such patients also report severe night sweats, which soak their clothing and bedding.
- Unexplained Weight Loss
Weight loss is a hallmark sign of tuberculosis and this is often significant and unintentional. These symptoms occur most frequently because your body’s immune system is fighting the infection.
- Fatigue and Weakness
The body’s battle with the infection can produce constant fatigue and a feeling of weakness.
- Loss of Appetite
TB patients often display a decreased appetite that ultimately contributes to weight loss and malnutrition.
- Coughing Up Blood
In cases of advanced TB, cough usually increases and blood or blood-streaked mucus may be coughed up, a sign of damaged lungs.
- Symptoms of Extrapulmonary TB
When TB spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause symptoms specific to those areas, such as:
- Spine: Back pain or stiffness
- Kidneys: Blood in the urine
- Brain: Severe headaches or neurological issues
If there are such manifestations, you should get a TB test in a clinic that is located nearby.
Latent TB vs. Active TB
Knowing the difference between latent and active TB is important. So that you can spot the disease and act quickly.
Latent TB:
- As long as the cells live, the bacteria stay in the body, and often there are no symptoms.
- TB is not contagious in people who are not actively sick.
- Latent TB can progress to active TB without treatment.
Active TB:
- There are symptoms — they’re not mild, they’re not good.
- Transmission of active TB is airborne.
TB Testing at Sahara West Urgent Care in Las Vegas
Through expert TB testing procedures Sahara West Urgent Care responds to searches for “TB test near me” in Las Vegas. Doctors need to diagnose TB patients early to manage treatment properly while stopping further transmission.
Types of TB Tests We Offer:
- Tuberculin Skin Test (TST)
- A tiny amount of tuberculin gets injected into the skin during testing.
- Medical professionals examine the site of injection between 48 and 72 hours after application to search for any reaction.
- Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs)
- The blood test provides detection of TB infection in patients.
- People who received the BCG vaccine receive more reliable TB test results.
When Should You Get Tested for TB?
Consider getting a TB test if you:
- You stood near someone diagnosed with active TB.
- You work at a healthcare facility because TB exposure exists there.
- Diabetes or HIV fights to compromise your immune system.
- You intend to visit or you came from places that show high TB infection rates.
Any persistent cough combined with a fever should prompt immediate evaluation if you experience any additional symptoms from the previous list.
Why Choose Sahara West Urgent Care for TB Testing in Las Vegas?
- Comprehensive Testing: Your health needs guide us to provide both timely and accurate TB testing.
- Experienced Staff: Our team gives both compassionate support and high professional standards to all patients we serve.
- Convenient Location: We provide easy access for residents near Las Vegas to obtain TB tests from our trusted TB test clinic.
- Prompt Results: Testing quickly and efficiently means you’ll get your results when you want them and without any delay.
Treatment Options for TB
If you are tested positive for TB, you will now find out whether the TB is reckoned as latent or an active disease. Treating it usually involves a type of antibiotics for months. Sahara West Urgent Care partners with specialists to help make sure you get the best treatment plan.
Common TB Medications:
- Isoniazid (INH)
- Rifampin (RIF)
- Ethambutol (EMB)
- Pyrazinamide (PZA)
Preventing the Spread of TB
- Early Diagnosis: If you have symptoms, get them tested right away.
- Complete Treatment: Follow the recommended treatment schedule.
- Hygiene Practices
- Vaccination
Schedule Your TB Test Today
Tuberculosis Early Detection & Treatment is important to protect your health and the health of your family and friends. Looking for another option for TB test clinics near you? Search no further than Sahara West Urgent Care in Las Vegas. Comprehensive testing and care are our dedicated healthcare professionals.  If you need to schedule an appointment or would like to read more blogs, feel free to get in touch with us.
