The Ins and Outs Of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which mainly affects the lungs, although many systems can be involved. It is a contagious disease that spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes or comes in close contact with healthy individuals. 

Those people who have a weakened immune system or have contracted HIV or AIDS are more prone to contracting tuberculosis than individuals with a healthy immune system.

Active vs. Latent Tuberculosis (Explained With Symptoms)

Active tuberculosis means that the person has bacteria inside the body that is reproducing and spreading, causing symptoms. Since the germs are active, they can spread from person to person if they come in close contact. 

On the other hand, latent TB infection is the one in which the germs are asleep (dormant), which means that they do not reproduce nor do they cause any symptoms. However, the bacteria might get active at any stage of life, become contagious and cause multiple symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, chest pain, fever and chills.

Active TB 

Latent TB

A person experiences symptoms such as

  • Cough lasting for more than 3 weeks
  • Pain in chest,
  • Cough with blood or sputum
  • Fatigue and body aches
  • Weight loss 
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever and chills
  • Sweating at night 

A person has no symptoms and doesn’t feel sick.

It can spread the infection by coughing, sneezing, or even talking. 

It cannot spread from person to person.

The tuberculin skin and blood tests are positive, and the chest X-rays might be abnormal. 

The tuberculin skin and blood tests are positive, but there is a normal chest X-ray with no abnormalities.

Needs treatment to recover from the disease

Needs treatment to prevent the germs from getting active and killing it inside the body

Types of TB Testing at Urgent Care

There are three common types of tuberculosis testing done in urgent care clinics.

Blood Test: In this test, the healthcare provider checks the levels of interferon-gamma produced in your body due to infection. A high level in test results indicates that you have an active or latent TB. 

Tuberculin Skin Test: This test is done by injecting a fluid (called tuberculin) into the skin of the forearm. If there’s swelling of a lump on the injection site within 2 or 3 days, it means that you are positive for TB. 

Chest X-rays: Your doctor might order a chest X-ray at the start of treatment or even during the treatment to evaluate the spread of infection in your lungs if you have an active TB infection.

How Can Family Urgent Care Help In TB Testing & Diagnosis?​

If you are experiencing any symptoms like cough, chest pain, fever, weight loss or any other unusual symptoms, you need to get yourself tested for tuberculosis. You can visit Family Urgent Care in Indiana or Illinois as we operate in multiple locations: Rogers Park, Lincoln Park and Schererville.

At Family Urgent Care, we offer accurate and reliable TB testing which includes tuberculin skin test and blood tests for a proper diagnosis.

All you need to do is book your appointment or walk into our clinic and receive prompt TB testing, diagnosis and treatment plan. If you need specialized care, you might also be referred to a specialized clinic or facility equipped for further evaluation and treatment.

tb-test-urgent-care

Tuberculosis

Angelica J.
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It was easy to check in and be seen by a doctor immediately. The staff and doctor were professional and listened to my concerns. I was prescribed medication and sent to my pharmacy the same day. They accepted my Medicaid insurance.
《Jess 》
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Clean, fast, friendly and professional.
Burkay T. O.
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The staff and the doctors working here are great people. They listen carefully, explain patiently and try to help you. They are efficient and caring. I live 3 miles away and there is another urgent care place near my house, but I go here instead.
Максим Т.
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Very friendly staff!Highly recommend them!
Rhonda T.
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While traveling I injured my foot and needed medical assistance. I Googled Urgent care near me and was immediately sent to Family Urgent Care located just 4 blocks away from where we were. i was seen right away and my procedure was over in less than 30 minutes. I could not ask for better treatment the medical team was very professional, efficient and kind.Thanks again!!
Bradley S.
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I’ve been here three times now, and each experience has exceeded my expectations. The level of care, attention to detail, and efficiency during each appointment is truly impressive. It’s rare to find a place that consistently delivers such thorough and timely service—I’m always in and out quickly without ever feeling rushed.
Jonathan S.
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I woke up this morning with a strange tingling sensation in my eye, lip, mouth, and nose. I was anxious and unsure how I’d make it to a doctor, but my wonderful husband suggested his trusted neighborhood urgent care—and I’m so glad he did.Scheduling an appointment online was quick and easy, and checking in once I arrived was just as smooth. The front desk receptionist was warm, patient, and incredibly helpful as I gathered everything I needed for the visit.Dr. Farrah was exceptional—her attentiveness, compassion, and clear communication truly put me at ease. I felt genuinely cared for and supported throughout the entire visit.I’m so grateful for the experience and will definitely be returning in the future. Thank you all for the wonderful care!
Dillon Jones (.
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There close by and the nurse was extremely helpful in calming me down during my blood work
EhSan A.
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Great service. Abdullah bhai team is the best. Awesome patient care.
Maria 1.
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The front lady was very nice and respectful. She had positive vibes. The doctor was nice and gentle with the patient.
Trinesha W.
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Great, quick service!!!! I visit all the time.
A. S.
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Very good visit
Zubair M.
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Awesome service. Abdullah bhai team is the best. Thanks
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Always get the best care here with no problems and it's so convenient. Never long waiting times. MY FAV CLINIC💗
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Great service. Abdullah bhai is the best.
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Great staff, very speedy, and gave me everything I needed.
Mohammed Abdul Rashid Nuru S.
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Excellent service. Abdullah bhai team is great.
Maria C.
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Buen lugar para urgencias.
Mir R.
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Always get hands-on care, much gratitude.
Robert S.
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Amazing staff, very professional and friendly. The place is also very, very clean.
Azam K.
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I had a pre Op visit a day before my surgery. Dr. Simi attended to me and was very kind and gave me reassurance required for the surgery. I am thankful for having Dr. Simi and Dr. Siraj at the clinic
Ab H.
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jody W.
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This place is the best. They are fast and knowledgeable. They always help us here. Wonderful people too
mudassar H.
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HEDAYAT Q.
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Awesome service. Abdullah bhai team is the best. Thanks
dere k
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Very nice doctors, experienced.Quickly inspected, qualitatively.I am very satisfied.Thank you!
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الخدمه والدكاتره كثير جيدين
Ammaarah Z.
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Fast !!
Aftab D.
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Always satisfied, good doctors , well mannered staff . Today Dr Simi Mehmood saw me and explained to me my condition. I will give surely 5 star to doctors staff and facility.
Ather H.
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Best clinic in north side
Wilson K.
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Awesome service. Dr Simi, Maya and Abdullah were great. Definitely come back. Thanks
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