Tuberculosis

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 What is TB (Tuberculosis)

Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, although it can also affect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis is called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.



How does TB spread?


TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and another person inhales the bacteria. It is important to note that not everyone who is infected with TB will develop active tuberculosis, as the bacteria can remain dormant in the body for years without causing any symptoms.



Signs and symptoms of TB


Symptoms of TB may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood or phlegm, chest pain, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. In some cases, tuberculosis can also cause other complications such as meningitis, which affects the brain and spinal cord, and bone or joint infections.


The signs and symptoms of TB can vary depending on the part of the body that is affected. The most common form of TB is pulmonary TB, which affects the lungs. The signs and symptoms of pulmonary TB include:


Cough that lasts for more than 2 weeks

Coughing up blood or phlegm

Chest pain

Fatigue

Fever and chills

Night sweats

Loss of appetite and weight loss

Shortness of breath


TB can also affect other parts of the body, such as the bones, lymph nodes, and brain. The signs and symptoms of extra-pulmonary TB depend on the site of the infection, but can include:


Bone pain and joint swelling

Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck

Persistent headache and neck stiffness

Confusion and disorientation




Treatment of TB


Treatment for tuberculosis typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken over a period of several months to a year. It is important to complete the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of the bacteria.


Preventive measures against TB


Prevention measures for tuberculosis include avoiding close contact with individuals who are infected, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and maintaining good hygiene practices such as washing your hands regularly. There is also a vaccine available for tuberculosis called the Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, which is recommended for individuals who are at high risk of contracting the disease.





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