Introduction
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mostly affects the lungs, but may affect other parts of the body, such as the spine, kidneys, and the brain. TB is among the most prevalent causes of death in the world and is particularly prevalent in countries with poorer infrastructure. Although it’s highly infectious effective treatment and preventive measures can in limiting the spread.
What is Tuberculosis (TB)?
Tuberculosis can be described as a bacterial infection which spreads via airborne droplets whenever an infected person coughs or is sneezed. The disease is able to manifest in two types:
- Latent TB :- The bacteria persist within the body in a non-active state and do not cause any symptoms. However, it may develop into active.
- Active TB :- The bacteria multiply, creating symptoms and rendering the patient infected.
If not treated properly, TB can be life-threatening particularly for those who have weak immune systems.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
The symptoms of TB vary based on the severity of the disease or latent. The most frequent signs of active TB are:
- A persistent cough that lasts longer than three weeks
- Sneezing blood or mucus
- A difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Insomnia and fatigue
- Night sweats
- Chest and fever
- A loss of appetite
If TB affects organs other that the lungs, the symptoms might differ. For instance, TB in the spine can cause back pain and TB that affects the kidneys could cause blood to flow into the urine.
Causes of Tuberculosis
TB is caused Mycobacterium tuberculosis that is spread through tiny droplets of air as an infected individual:
- Coughs
- Sneezes
- Speaks
- Laughs
- Sings
While TB is infectious It is not transmitted through sharing food items, shaking hands or touching surfaces. Certain circumstances increase the likelihood of contracting TB including:
- An immune system that is weak (due to diabetes, HIV/AIDS or cancer)
- Malnutrition
- Living in the overcrowded and poorly ventilated areas
- The use of tobacco and alcohol, as well as other substances.
- In close contact with an infected person
Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
The TB diagnosis requires a variety of tests to determine the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.. The most commonly used diagnostic techniques comprise:
1. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) :- A small amount of tuberculin will be injected under the skin. The reaction is assessed after 48-72 hours.
2. Chest radiograph :- It helps to detect lung disorders that can be caused by TB.
3. Sputum test :- The mucus sample can be analyzed for TB-related bacteria.
4. IgRAs: Interferon Glympha Release Analyses (IGRAs): Blood tests to determine if there is a TB infection.
5. CT Scans as well as MRI :- They are used for cases of extrapulmonary TB (TB affects organs other than the lung).
The early diagnosis is essential to stop complications from spreading to other people.
Treatment for Tuberculosis
The treatment for TB is the use of a mixture of antibiotics over a period of time. The typical treatment consists of:
- Drugs that are first in line: Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide generally used for 6 months.
- Second-line drugs: Used for drug-resistant TB, requiring longer treatment durations.
It is vital to complete the entire course of treatment in order to avoid drug resistance. Patients suffering from drug-resistant TB might require stronger medicines for a period of 18-24 months.
Preventive Measures for Tuberculosis
Prevention of TB requires a combination of hygiene, vaccination and the early detection. The most important preventive measures are:
1. BCG The vaccine :- A vaccine administered to children living in countries with high risk to help protect them from TB.
2. Good respiratory hygiene :- Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze to avoid the transmission of airborne viruses.
3. Proper Ventilation :- By providing the air quality of your living space to decrease the chance of spreading TB.
4. Early screening and treatment :- If you are subjected to TB and then completing treatment in the event of being diagnosed.
5. A Healthy Lifestyle :- Maintaining a healthy immune system with healthy eating, exercising and not smoking alcohol.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- A chronic cough that lasts for longer than three weeks
- Sniffing blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and night sweats
- Chest pain or breathing difficulty
Early detection can greatly improve the effectiveness of treatment and decrease transmission.
Conclusion
Tuberculosis continues to be a health issue however, with the right awareness of the disease, prompt diagnosis, and appropriate treatment, it is treatable and avoidable. Health initiatives for public health, vaccines and lifestyle changes can play an important role in stopping the spreading of TB. When you notice TB symptoms take immediate medical attention to ensure your safety and that of those who are around you.
