What You Need to Know Before Taking a TB Test at the Health Department

What You Need to Know Before Taking a TB Test at the Health Department

If you suspect that you might have tuberculosis (TB), then you need to get yourself tested as soon as possible. TB is a serious illness that can affect your lungs and other parts of the body, and it is highly contagious. However, before you go for a test at the health department, there are several things that you should know.

Types of TB Tests

There are two types of TB tests – the skin test and the blood test. The skin test involves injecting a small amount of fluid under the skin of your forearm. After 2-3 days, a small bump will form on your skin, which the healthcare provider will measure to determine if you have TB. The blood test, on the other hand, involves drawing a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.

Preparing for Your TB Test

Before going for a TB test, there are several things that you need to do to prepare yourself. First, inform your healthcare provider about any medications that you are taking, as some drugs can interfere with the test results. Second, avoid taking the TB test if you have recently been vaccinated with the Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, as it can cause a false positive result. Third, avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 2 hours before the test.

What to Expect During the Test

During the skin test, a healthcare provider will inject a small amount of fluid under the skin of your forearm. You will feel a slight pinch, and the area may become itchy or red. After 2-3 days, you will need to go back to the health department to have the bump on your arm measured. During the blood test, a healthcare provider will draw a small sample of blood from your arm and send it to a laboratory for analysis. You may experience a slight pinch or a mild stinging sensation during the procedure.

Interpreting Your Test Results

If you have a positive result on the TB test, it means that you have been exposed to the bacteria that cause TB. However, it does not necessarily mean that you have active TB disease. Further diagnostic tests, such as a chest x-ray or a sputum test, may be needed to confirm a TB diagnosis. If you have a negative result on the TB test, it means that you have not been exposed to the bacteria that cause TB, or your immune system has successfully fought off the infection.

Conclusion

Getting a TB test at the health department is a simple and straightforward process, but it’s important to be prepared and informed before you go for the test. By understanding the types of TB tests available, preparing yourself for the test, knowing what to expect during the procedure, and interpreting your test results accurately, you can take control of your health and prevent the spread of TB.

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