Tuberculosis (TB)

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also target other parts of the body like the kidneys, spine, or brain. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, making it highly contagious.

Side Effects of Tuberculosis (TB):

TB can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Persistent coughing that lasts for more than three weeks
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Coughing up blood or sputum
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever and chills
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Night sweats
• Shortness of breath

Left untreated, TB can lead to severe complications and even death. It's essential to seek medical attention if experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if living in or traveling to areas with a high TB prevalence.

How is Tuberculosis (TB) Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Tuberculosis typically involves several steps, including:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, medical history, and any potential TB exposure.
•  These tests detect the immune response to TB bacteria. A positive result indicates exposure to TB but doesn't necessarily mean active infection.
• Chest X-ray: This imaging test helps detect abnormalities in the lungs caused by TB infection.
• Sputum Culture: A sample of mucus coughed up from the lungs is examined under a microscope or cultured to confirm the presence of TB bacteria.

In some cases, additional tests such as a CT scan or biopsy may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

Potential Treatments of Tuberculosis (TB):

Treating TB involves a combination of antibiotics to kill the bacteria and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains. The most commonly used medications include:

• Isoniazid (INH)
• Rifampin (RIF)
• Ethambutol (EMB)
• Pyrazinamide (PZA)

👉 Contact us for further information and receive a complimentary consultation.