Tuberculosis (TB)

Home Hospital Tuberculosis (TB)
What Is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) stands among the top 10 global causes of mortality. It is triggered by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs, influenza, and is transmitted through the air. When individuals with pulmonary TB cough, sneeze, or spit, they release TB germs into the surrounding air.

Tuberculosis can be categorized into two types:

Latent TB
The bacteria remain dormant within the body, exhibiting no symptoms and being non-contagious. However, they have the potential to become active.
Active TB
The bacteria cause symptoms and can be transmitted to others.
Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those experiencing malnutrition, diabetes, HIV, or tobacco use, face an elevated risk of contracting tuberculosis.
Signs and Symptoms
Active TB can manifest with symptoms such as:
  • Persistent cough lasting three weeks or more
  • Chest pain
  • Coughing up blood or sputum
  • Other potential symptoms include weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, fever, chills, and night sweats.
Diagnosis
Sputum smear microscopy is a highly specific test for TB, but negative results do not necessarily rule out the disease. No blood test reliably diagnoses tuberculosis. Chest X-rays, bronchoscopy, and CT scans are often instrumental in confirming a tuberculosis diagnosis.
Treatment

Tuberculosis is both curable and preventable. Active, drug-susceptible TB is typically treated with a standard 6-month course involving four antimicrobial drugs. Compliance with the treatment regimen is crucial for successful recovery.

Directly observed therapy (DOT) is recommended, involving a healthcare worker administering TB medication in person to ensure completion of the treatment.

Potential side effects, including dark urine, jaundice, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting, should be promptly reported to a doctor.

Prevention

Several general measures can help prevent the spread of active TB:
  • Wearing a mask is particularly important in crowded or confined spaces.
  • Covering the mouth: Individuals with active TB should cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing.
  • Ventilation: Ensuring well-ventilated rooms can help limit the spread of TB bacteria.

These preventive measures contribute to reducing the transmission of tuberculosis and protecting individuals from the contraction of the disease.

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