Understanding Tuberculosis: Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests Offered
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 10 million people fell ill with TB in 2020 alone, underscoring the ongoing challenge it poses to public health systems worldwide.
Identifying the Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Recognising the symptoms of tuberculosis is vital for early diagnosis and treatment. The initial symptoms can often be mistaken for other respiratory illnesses, complicating the process of detection.
Early signs of tuberculosis:
- Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Chills
*Patient may be asymptomatic
If left untreated, pulmonary tuberculosis can advance significantly, leading to serious complications such as lung damage and respiratory failure, which eventually causes death.
Risk Factors for Tuberculosis
Certain groups of individuals are more susceptible to tuberculosis. Risk factors include weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and malnutrition. Additionally, individuals living in areas with high TB prevalence or in close contact with an infected person are at greater risk.
Laboratory Tests Offered By Lablink
Lablink provides a range of complementary and comprehensive mycobacteriology diagnostic tests that are rapid, accurate and actionable.
