Tuberculosis is a disease that is spread from one person to another through the air. Typically, the disease attacks the lungs but can cause damage to your kidneys, spine, or brain. There is a version of TB known as latent TB infection which can live inside of a person without showing any symptoms. It can later evolve and turn into a TB disease. Two types of tests can be performed to determine if you have been infected with TB. You may need to search online for urgent care near me to find a location that conducts these tests. 

What is a TB Test?

A TB test is conducted by a medical professional to look for signs of TB disease. It can be performed on nearly anyone. This can include pregnant women, children and infants, HIV-positive people, and those who have had the BCG shot. The only exception is if you have previously had a severe reaction to a TB test in the past. You can take repeat tests if you have not previously had a negative reaction. 

TB Skin Test

A medical professional will use a small needle to inject a liquid into the skin of your arm. You must then return within 48-72 hours to the center that you found searching for urgent care near me online. They will then check to see if there was a reaction. Depending on the results further instructions may be given. A positive test means you have been infected with TB bacteria and you may need to have further testing such as a chest X-Ray to determine if you have TB.

TB Blood Test

A blood test is collected using a needle and is then sent to a lab for testing. The lab will then process the blood and send back the results to the location you found by searching urgent care near me online. It is important to note that you should only take one of these TB tests and not both. There are rare occurrences that both tests can be recommended. The decision on which test is best for you will be made by the medical professional you see. 

Why do I Need a Test at an Urgent Care Near Me?

A TB test will be recommended by health care providers if you are showing symptoms of an active infection or if they believe you are at high risk for the infection. Active symptoms include but are not limited to:

• Chest pain
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Cough lasting for over three weeks
• Night sweats
• Coughing up blood
• Unexplained weight loss

You may experience other symptoms. At the first onset of your symptoms, you should search for urgent care near me online to find a location to get treatment. 

UrgentMED is Your Trusted Urgent Care Center

If you suspect that you may have TB or another severe illness it is important to seek medical attention immediately. UrgentMED has several locations and is open seven days a week. We also offer extended weekend and weekday hours. Find an UrgentMED near you by visiting our website and do not hesitate to get the crucial medical care you need.