TB tips: exposure and infection
* TB is curable - If you feel you have been exposed to TB by someone else don't panic!
* If you are in contact with someone who has been diagnosed with TB you should tell your doctor so that he can carry out appropriate tests to see if you need treatment.
* Depending on your personal circumstances, your doctor may feel it is appropriate to put you on some medication to prevent you from developing TB. Even if you appear uninfected.
* If you develop any of the symptoms mentioned in this section viz.: persistent cough, blood stained sputum, fever, night sweats or weight loss - don't leave anything to chance - get a check up from your doctor. The sooner you are treated for TB disease, the sooner you will be cured.
*The symptoms of TB vary from person to person. Any combination of the symptoms mentioned above are worth having checked out.
* Sometimes you will have to wait a long time for test results. It serves no purpose to torture yourself during this time. Try to be patient. It will probably be good news.
* If you don't understand what a doctor is telling you, ask again...and again if you have to. Don't be intimidated by them - they are human beings too! Sometimes because they understand their subject as well as they do, it is easy for them to assume that you understand it too. Take a notepad if necessary.
* Take a friend with you when you go to see the doctor. It helps to be able to talk over what you have heard with someone else you know well. It also helps them to know what is happening to you.
* If you are found to be latently infected with TB remember you are not infectious; only about 10 per cent of people go on to develop TB disease. However, if you are immuno-compromised in any way you may be more at risk. Talk to your doctor about this.
* You may have to spend some time apart from people who may be considered vulnerable. Having to spend time away from friends during a time of need can be hard, but it is a necessary precaution. It is better to be safe!
If contact tracing is initiated, disclosing names of people you have been in contact with may be embarrassing and awkward - again it is best to be safe. You never know, one of the people on your list may have infected you, and may need help and treatment themselves.
* Nurses won't mind you talking to them if you need help. It is part of their job and they are often easier to communicate with than doctors and are generally more approachable.
