What is tuberculosis?

A serious infectious disease that affects the lungs is known as tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is contagious and its spreads through the air via sneezes and coughs of affected individuals. Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis, which was an incurable condition in the past can now be cured with a few months of medical treatment.

What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?

The doctors usually divide the condition into two- latent and active TB

• Latent TB: It does not cause any symptoms as the bacteria remains inactive during this time. This condition is also known as inactive TB, which is not contagious. If left untreated, it can become active and contagious.

• Active TB: The condition makes the individual sick. Active TB is contagious.

Signs and symptoms of active TB include:

• Cough that lasts for three or more weeks

• Chest pain while coughing or breathing

• Blood in the cough

• Fever

• Chills

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

How do you get tuberculosis?

Bacteria that cause tuberculosis spreads from person to person. When a TB patient releases small droplets into the air through sneeze, cough, laugh, spits or sings, it can pass on to the person nearby. Patients with active Tb and having treatment for around two weeks may not spread TB.

How is TB diagnosed?

Tests to diagnose Tb include:

• Blood tests

• X-ray

• CT

• Sputum tests

Is TB curable?  what are the treatments for TB?

TB may require a long-term treatment. Medications are the one and only and main treatment for tuberculosis. Latent TB requires only one type of TB medicine. Whereas, active TB may require several drugs. If the patient has a drug-resistant TB, a combination of antibiotics plus injectable medications will be suggested.