What is MDR-TB?
(Part 8)
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): We are still in our discussion of MDR-TB, Dr. Bryan. What are the early warning signs of a pulmonary disease like TB? When should a person see a doctor?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: A person should see a doctor if: He has a persistent cough, lasting at least 3 weeks; He has phlegm, which may have blood in it, he coughs; He has loss of appetite and weight; He has a general feeling of being weak, tired and not well; He has swelling in the neck; He has fever; He has night sweats; He has chest pain.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): I understand.
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: And that is more common in people with weakened immune systems.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): Does it mean to say that TB affects only the lungs?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: TB usually affects the lungs, though symptoms can develop in other parts of the body.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): What do you mean, Dr. Bryan?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: What I am trying to say is that TB can also manifest in other parts of the body. It can cause: persistently swollen lymph nodes, or “swollen glands”; abdominal pain; joint or bone pain; confusion; a persistent headache; and seizures.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): Will this be told in the diagnosis of the patient?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: Well, a doctor will ask about any symptoms and the person’s medical history. The doctor will also perform a physical examination, which involves listening to the lungs and checking for swelling in the lymph nodes.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): Are there tests to show if the bacteria are present?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: There are two tests can show whether TB bacteria are present:
the TB skin test and the TB blood test. (TO BE CONTINUED)