Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also target other organs, leading to severe inflammation. Commonly referred to by its medical name, Tuberculosis, the disease spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales. These droplets can be inhaled by others, allowing the bacteria to enter their respiratory systems and potentially cause infection.
In 2020, approximately 10 million people worldwide were diagnosed with tuberculosis, and tragically, 1.5 million lost their lives to the disease.
What Are The Symptoms Of Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis does not always become active immediately after infection. In some cases, the bacteria remain dormant, especially in individuals with strong immune systems. However, if immunity weakens, the infection can activate, leading to a gradual onset of symptoms. These symptoms are generally categorized into two groups: systemic (whole-body) effects and lung-specific manifestations. While TB is most recognized as a respiratory illness, it can also impact other organs, producing symptoms related to the affected area.
Common symptoms of tuberculosis include:
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
Respiratory symptoms often involve:
- A cough lasting more than two weeks
- Phlegm production, sometimes with blood (hemoptysis)
- Chest and back pain
- Shortness of breath and hoarseness
Individuals with compromised immune systems may experience symptoms more rapidly. Although TB is contagious, transmission is not as easy as with some other infections. Certain health conditions—such as HIV, kidney disease, heart disease, or recent surgeries—increase susceptibility to TB.
TB infection progresses in two stages:
- Latent Tuberculosis: The bacteria remain inactive in the body, causing no symptoms. The immune system keeps the infection under control, preventing it from spreading or becoming contagious. However, latent TB can still require treatment to avoid future activation.
- Active Tuberculosis: When the immune system weakens, the bacteria multiply, leading to noticeable symptoms. Active TB is contagious and poses serious health risks if untreated.
High-risk groups for active TB include:
- People with weakened immune systems
- Elderly individuals and young children
EARLY SYMPTOMS OF TUBERCULOSIS
Early warning signs may include:
- A persistent cough (lasting three weeks or more)
- Blood-tinged sputum
- Significant weight loss and reduced appetite
- Chronic fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck
- Fever and night sweats
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Stomach pain, joint pain, or bone pain
- Confusion or persistent headaches (in cases of brain involvement)
How Is Tuberculosis Diagnosed?
Latent TB often goes undetected without symptoms, making diagnostic tests essential for at-risk individuals. Testing is recommended for those who:
- Have been in close contact with a TB patient
- Have lived in or traveled to regions with high TB rates
- Work in environments where TB exposure is possible
Diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical examination, including a review of medical history and a physical check for swollen lymph nodes or lung abnormalities. Two primary tests detect TB bacteria:
- Tuberculin skin test (TST)
- TB blood test (Interferon-Gamma Release Assay, IGRA)
Neither test can distinguish between latent and active TB. To confirm active tuberculosis, doctors may order additional tests, such as:
- Sputum analysis
- Chest X-rays or CT scans
Early diagnosis is critical, as both latent and active TB require treatment to prevent complications.
How Is Tuberculosis Treated?
TB treatment involves a combination of antibiotics designed to eliminate the bacteria. Left untreated, tuberculosis can be fatal. The standard treatment lasts at least six months, though some cases require longer therapy under medical supervision. Strict adherence to the prescribed medication regimen is crucial to ensure effectiveness and prevent drug-resistant strains from developing.
If TB spreads beyond the lungs, it can cause severe complications, including cardiovascular issues, metabolic dysfunction, or even sepsis—a life-threatening systemic infection.
Active TB is both contagious and dangerous without proper treatment. Fortunately, most cases are curable, especially when detected early. High-risk individuals or those experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Known as a “silent disease,” TB demands long-term management and patience. Consistent use of prescribed medications not only ensures successful treatment but also reduces the risk of transmission. Inconsistent treatment can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is harder to cure.
Lifestyle Recommendations for TB Patients:
- Ensure proper ventilation in living spaces (fresh air aids recovery).
- Expose bedding and clothing to sunlight (UV light kills TB bacteria).
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they weaken the immune system.
- Maintain a nutritious diet and stay hydrated to support healing.
With proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, tuberculosis can be effectively managed and overcome.