I'm really worried about my dad. He's been a welder for years, and lately, he's been dealing with a cough and black phlegm for about two weeks now. We got him tested for COVID and it's negative, thank goodness, but I'm starting to wonder if these symptoms might be linked to his work. Could it be some kind of occupational respiratory disorder? What should we do next?
Patient is advised chest x-ray pa view and sputum for AFB bacilli and microscopy tests.