Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also target other parts of the body. To manage Tuberculosis effectively, it is crucial to recognize the early symptoms of the disease, understand its main causes, undergo an accurate diagnosis, and receive appropriate treatment.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the early symptoms of tuberculosis, its underlying causes, methods of diagnosis, available treatments, and the critical aspects of dealing with this global health concern.
Different forms of Tuberculosis
- Primary infection
- Active tuberculosis
- Latent tuberculosis
What Are the Early Symptoms of Tuberculosis?
Early symptoms of tuberculosis may vary, making the diagnosis difficult. However, the common symptoms are:
- Cough that lasts for three weeks or longer and produces mucus (sometimes blood)
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Unexpected weight loss
- Chills
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Night sweats
Those who have a latent TB infection may not exhibit these symptoms, but if left untreated, they can develop active TB.
What Causes Tuberculosis?
The bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the main cause of tuberculosis. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, airborne droplets are generated that allow the disease to spread. A weakened immune system, for example, caused by HIV infection, when comes into direct contact with an infected individual living in crowded or unclean surroundings, has high chances of acquiring TB. TB mostly affects the lungs, but it can also affect the kidneys, spine, and brain.
Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
For accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis physicians may advise a number of procedures, including:
TB Skin Test (TST): Also referred to as the Mantoux test, this procedure involves injecting a small quantity of TB protein under the skin and observing the patient for a reaction.
Blood Tests: Blood tests can detect TB infection or determine if it is active or latent.
Chest X-Ray: X-rays can show lung abnormalities that could be signs of TB infection.
Sputum Tests: Sputum (lung mucus) collection and testing can detect the presence of TB germs.
GeneXpert Test: This quick molecular test looks for tuberculosis (TB) bacteria and determines whether they're resistant to common TB drugs.
Treatment for Tuberculosis
With the right treatments, tuberculosis is curable, but for therapy to be effective, it must be followed consistently. Taking a mixture of antibiotics for 6 to 9 months is the standard course of treatment for tuberculosis. Isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide are the most frequently utilized medications. In some circumstances, treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB may need to be more extensive and complex.
It's important to follow the prescribed treatment plan diligently, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the development of drug-resistant TB strains. Health providers monitor the progress of treatment through periodic check-ups, tests, and medical imaging.
Also Read: Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
Prevention and Control
TB prevention involves tackling risk factors, enhancing living conditions, and putting forward prevention strategies. The BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) vaccine can help prevent the development of severe TB, especially in youngsters.
Tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge. Controlling the spread of this disease depends on early detection of symptoms, knowledge of the causes, a precise diagnosis, and adherence to therapy. The prevention and treatment of tuberculosis depend heavily on public health initiatives, vaccinations, and advancements in the healthcare system. Seeking medical help as soon as you suspect you or someone you know may have tuberculosis is essential for effective treatment and preventing the spread of the disease.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
