Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB is one of the 10 leading causes of death worldwide and remains a major public health problem.
Transmission
TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets that contain the bacteria. TB is contagious, but not everyone who is exposed to the bacteria will develop active tuberculosis. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or malnutrition, are more likely to develop active TB.
Symptoms
The symptoms of TB can vary depending on which part of the body is affected. The most common symptom of pulmonary TB is a cough that lasts for more than two weeks, along with chest pain and coughing up blood. Other symptoms include fever, night sweats, and weight loss. TB can also affect other parts of the body and cause symptoms such as back pain, joint pain and difficulty urinating.
Diagnosis
TB is diagnosed by a combination of history, physical examination and laboratory tests. A skin test called the Mantoux test is often used to screen for TB. Blood tests and imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans can also help diagnose TB.
Therapy
TB is treated with antibiotics for six to nine months. Treatment can be challenging because some strains of TB are resistant to standard antibiotics. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection is fully treated and to prevent the development of drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Prevention
TB prevention involves a combination of strategies, including vaccination, early detection and treatment of active cases, and infection control measures such as improved ventilation in crowded areas. Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine is commonly used to prevent TB, especially in countries where TB is endemic.
Tuberculosis remains a major public health problem, especially in developing countries with limited resources. Early detection and treatment, along with prevention strategies, are key to controlling the spread of TB and reducing its impact on individuals and communities.
To consult a Pulmonologist (Chest Specialist) at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, call our helpline numbers 9830117733 and 8335049501.
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Well researched article on TB.
Dear Sir,
Thanks for the kind words of appreciation.
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Team Sparsh
Good read on Tuberculosis.
Very useful article. TB treatment is done through 4/5 medicines for minimum six months, during this time no medicine should be skipped for better cure rate.
Thanks for the appreciation!!!
Wonderfully researched article!!!
Thanks!!!