Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually affects the lungs, but can also affect other organs such as the kidneys, spine and brain. TB is a global health problem, affecting millions of people around the world.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
The symptoms of tuberculosis vary depending on the organ where the infection is located. The most common symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis are:
- Prolonged cough (more than 3 weeks)
- Spitting up blood or blood in sputum
- Chest pain
- Constant fatigue
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Fever and night sweats
Transmission Route
Tuberculosis is transmitted through airborne droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or spits, the bacteria get into the air and other people who breathe this air can become infected. Transmission of TB usually requires prolonged and close contact, so people living in the same household or in the same environment for long periods of time are at higher risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of TB is usually done through a variety of methods, including skin testing, blood tests, chest x-rays and sputum tests. The skin test shows whether you have been exposed to the infection, but additional tests are needed to confirm whether you have an active TB infection.
Treatment
Treatment for tuberculosis requires long-term therapy, usually involving several antibiotics. The course of treatment usually lasts for 6 months and it is important to take the medication regularly for treatment to be successful. Early termination of treatment or irregular medication use can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of TB.
Prevention
Prevention of tuberculosis includes early detection and treatment of active TB cases. The BCG vaccine can protect against TB and is usually given to infants in countries where TB is prevalent. In addition, early detection and treatment of infected people is critical to prevent transmission of the disease to others.
Tuberculosis is an effectively treatable and preventable disease. However, its worldwide prevalence remains a major public health challenge, particularly in resource-limited countries. Prevention and control of TB requires a comprehensive approach that includes early detection, regular treatment and vaccination.