What is tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a serious disease caused by a bacterium known as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It most commonly affects the lungs but can also impact other organs such as the kidneys, spine, and even the brain.
Tuberculosis spreads from one person to another through the air, especially when an infected person coughs or sneezes. What makes it dangerous is that it can remain dormant in the body for years without symptoms, then suddenly become active when the immune system weakens.
Although it is an ancient disease, tuberculosis still threatens the lives of millions around the world, especially in developing countries.
What are the causes of tuberculosis infection?
There are several common causes of tuberculosis infection, including:
- Direct infection from a person with active tuberculosis through droplets from the mouth or nose
- Weak immune system due to diseases such as diabetes or HIV
- Malnutrition, which weakens the body's resistance to infection
- Living in crowded or poorly ventilated places
- Smoking, which weakens the lungs and increases the risk of infection
- Prolonged exposure to infected individuals without protection, especially at home or work
What are the common symptoms of tuberculosis?
There are several common symptoms that a patient may experience, including:
- Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks
- Phlegm that may be mixed with blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Heavy night sweats
- Fever
- General fatigue and weakness in daily activities
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
When should you see a doctor?
It is advised to see a doctor immediately if any of the following occur:
- Persistent cough for more than two weeks without improvement
- Rapid and unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the phlegm
- Persistent fever with night sweats
- Contact with a person infected with active tuberculosis
- Feeling extremely fatigued without a clear reason
How is tuberculosis diagnosed?
The disease is diagnosed using several methods, including:
- Sputum test to detect the bacteria under a microscope
- Rapid molecular tests such as CBNAAT and TrueNat
- Tuberculin skin test (Mantoux test) to monitor immune response
- Chest X-ray to detect lung damage or cavities
- Blood tests to assess general health and rule out other diseases
What are the treatment methods for tuberculosis?
There are several ways to treat the disease, including:
- Regular drug therapy using anti-tuberculosis medications such as isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.
- Complete oral treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis includes the use of bedaquiline, linezolid, and pretomanid.
- Shorter treatment courses (4 months) for some uncomplicated cases
- Regular follow-up with sputum and blood tests to monitor treatment response
- Nutritional and psychological support to enhance treatment effectiveness and improve recovery chances
Can tuberculosis be cured?
Yes, tuberculosis can be completely cured if detected early and treated consistently without interruption. The treatment duration depends on the type of tuberculosis (drug-sensitive or drug-resistant), usually ranging from 4 to 9 months.
Strict adherence to the doctor's instructions and regular medication intake are the most important factors for full recovery and preventing relapse.
What are the prevention tips for tuberculosis?
There are several tips to help prevent the disease, including:
- Avoid crowded and poorly ventilated places
- Wear a mask in public areas or when visiting patients
- Ensure good daily ventilation at home
- Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Strengthen the immune system with proper nutrition and adequate sleep
- Undergo regular check-ups, especially for those in contact with TB patients
- Take preventive treatment if you are in a high-risk group
What are the possible complications of tuberculosis?
Some complications may occur if the disease is left untreated, such as:
- Permanent lung damage
- Spread of infection to other organs like the kidneys or brain
- Development of drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB or XDR-TB)
- Respiratory failure or pulmonary bleeding
- Death in advanced or untreated cases
Common questions about tuberculosis
Can tuberculosis return after recovery?
Yes, if treatment is not completed or if the immune system weakens.
Does tuberculosis affect children?
Yes, and it can be more dangerous for them.
Can tuberculosis be prevented?
Yes, through vaccination, prevention, and strengthening the immune system.
Is tuberculosis a fatal disease?
It can be fatal if not treated in time.