Tuberculosis

Overview:
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily affects the lungs, it can also involve other organs such as the kidneys, spine, or brain. TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. The infection can be latent (inactive) or active, with active TB leading to noticeable symptoms and requiring prompt treatment.

Causes:
TB is primarily transmitted through inhaling bacteria released into the air by someone with active TB. Individuals with weakened immune systems—such as those with HIV, malnutrition, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses—are at higher risk. Living or working in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces further increases the likelihood of contracting TB.

Symptoms:
Signs of active TB include:

• 1. Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
• 2. Chest pain and difficulty breathing
• 3. Coughing up blood or sputum
• 4. Night sweats, fever, and fatigue
• 5. Unexplained weight loss
• 6. TB can also affect other organs, producing symptoms specific to the site of infection—for example, abdominal pain in gastrointestinal TB or back pain in spinal TB.

Treatment:
TB is treatable with a combination of antibiotics over an extended course, typically 6–9 months. Commonly prescribed medications include isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. Completing the full treatment regimen is critical to prevent drug resistance, relapse, and further transmission.

Precautions:
Patients with active TB should practice isolation in the early stages of treatment to prevent spreading the infection. Essential precautions include:

• 1. Wearing masks and covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing
• 2. Following strict hygiene practices
• 3. Attending regular medical check-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment if needed

Prevention:
Key preventive measures include:

• 1. Vaccination with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine
• 2. Maintaining well-ventilated living and working environments
• 3. Early detection and prompt treatment of latent TB
• 4. Strengthening the immune system through proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices
• 5. Avoiding close contact with individuals known to have active TB

Expert TB Care in Lucknow:
For advanced TB treatment and management, visit  Medlife Research & Trauma Center. We provide comprehensive services including diagnostic testing, antibiotic therapy, 24/7 doctor availability, ambulance support, budget-friendly care.