Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially severe infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, spine, or brain. TB remains a global health challenge, and its timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and transmission.

What is Tuberculosis?

TB spreads through airborne particles released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. While many people exposed to TB bacteria do not fall ill due to their immune system's defense, the infection can become active under certain conditions.

TB is broadly classified into:

1. Latent TB Infection (LTBI): The bacteria remain inactive in the body and causes no symptoms but may activate later if untreated.
2. Active TB Disease: The bacteria multiply, causing symptoms and making the individual contagious.

How Does Tuberculosis Spread?

TB is highly contagious and spreads through close contact with an infected person. It is more likely to spread in:

• Crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.
• Communities with limited access to healthcare.
• Individuals with compromised immunity, such as those with HIV/AIDS or chronic conditions like poorly controlled diabetes.

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

The symptoms of TB can vary depending on the organs affected. The most common form, pulmonary TB, includes:

• Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks.
• Coughing up blood or mucus.
• Chest pain during breathing or coughing.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Night sweats.
• Fever and chills.
• Fatigue or weakness.

If TB affects other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain abdomen / vomiting, headache organ dysfunction.

Who is at Risk for Tuberculosis?

Certain factors increase the risk of developing TB:

• Weakened Immune System: HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer therapy can lower immunity.
• Living Conditions: Crowded housing or poor ventilation.
• Travel History: Visiting regions with high TB prevalence.
• Healthcare Workers:Increased exposure to TB patients.

Diagnosis of Tuberculosis

Accurate and early diagnosis is vital for TB management. Common diagnostic tests include:

1. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST):A small injection in the skin to test for immune response to TB bacteria.
2. Blood Tests: Such as interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) to detect TB bacteria.
3. Chest X-ray: To identify lung abnormalities.
4. Sputum Tests:Microscopic examination and culture of sputum samples for the presence of TB bacteria.

Advanced techniques like GeneXpert MTB/RIF help identify drug-resistant TB strains.

Treatment for Tuberculosis

TB is treatable with a strict course of antibiotics. The standard treatment involves:

1. First-Line Drugs: A combination of antibiotics such as isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide for six months or more.
2. Directly Observed Therapy (DOT): A healthcare provider ensures medication adherence to prevent resistance.
3. Drug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB): Treated with second-line drugs like fluoroquinolones and injectable medications under expert supervision.

Preventing Tuberculosis

Preventive measures play a vital role in controlling TB:

1. Vaccination: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine provides protection, especially for children.
2. Early Screening: Regular check-ups for high-risk individuals.
3. Isolation:For those with active TB to prevent transmission.
4. Improved Living Conditions: Better ventilation and reduced overcrowding.

Why Choose Accord Superspeciality Hospital for TB Care?

The Pulmonology Department at Accord Superspeciality Hospital offers comprehensive care for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of tuberculosis. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of experienced pulmonologists, we ensure accurate detection and personalized treatment plans for every patient.

Our services include:

• Advanced diagnostic facilities like GeneXpert and CT scans.
• Multi-disciplinary care for drug-resistant TB cases.
• Patient education and counseling for adherence to treatment protocols.

Living with TB: Tips for Recovery

• Follow the prescribed treatment plan without missing doses.
• Maintain a nutritious diet to boost immunity.
• Avoid smoking or exposure to pollutants.
• Keep follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
• Blood Sugar should be well controlled

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of tuberculosis, don’t delay seeking help. Schedule a consultation with our expert pulmonologists at Accord Superspeciality Hospital. Early diagnosis and effective treatment can make all the difference in overcoming this condition.

Accord Superspeciality Hospital – Your Trusted Partner in Respiratory Health.