Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. It is caused by a type of bacteria that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or sings.
Our Approach:
- Diagnosis: Accurate diagnosis of TB through physical examination, chest X-ray, and laboratory tests.
- Treatment: Administration of appropriate antibiotics to treat the infection.
- Monitoring: Close monitoring of treatment response and for potential complications.
- Prevention: Education on preventive measures to reduce the risk of TB transmission.
Why Choose Tiruvalla Medical Mission Hospital?
- Expert Care: Our team of skilled healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients with TB.
- Compassionate Environment: We create a supportive and comfortable atmosphere for patients and their families.
- Advanced Facilities: Our hospital is equipped with modern facilities and state-of-the-art equipment.
- Affordable Care: We offer quality healthcare at affordable rates.
Symptoms
Tuberculosis (TB) can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the stage of the infection. Understanding these symptoms can help you identify when to seek medical attention.
Primary TB Infection:
Most people with primary TB infection experience no symptoms. Some may develop flu-like symptoms, including:
- Low fever
- Tiredness
- Cough
Latent TB Infection:
Latent TB infection does not cause any symptoms.
Active TB Disease:
Lung TB:
- Cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
Extrapulmonary TB:
- Fever
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Pain near the site of infection
Causes
Causes of Tuberculosis Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The disease is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or sings, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria.
- Close contact: Prolonged exposure to individuals with active tuberculosis, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces such as homes, workplaces, or crowded gatherings, significantly increases the risk of transmission.
- Weakened immune systems: Individuals with weakened immune systems—such as those with HIV/AIDS or other immunocompromising conditions—are at a higher risk of developing active tuberculosis upon exposure.
Risk Factors
Tuberculosis (TB) can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk of infection and the development of active TB disease.
- Close contact with an infected person: Spending prolonged time with someone who has active tuberculosis increases the risk of transmission.
- Travel to high-risk regions: Visiting or living in areas where tuberculosis is common elevates the chance of exposure.
- Living in crowded conditions: Overcrowded housing or communal living spaces facilitate the spread of TB bacteria.
- Working in healthcare or with high-risk populations: Healthcare workers and those who interact with vulnerable populations are at increased risk of exposure.
Complications
Complications of Tuberculosis:
- Joint damage: Tuberculosis can spread to the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
- Lung damage: TB can cause extensive lung damage, resulting in breathing difficulties, coughing up blood, and other respiratory issues.
- Infection or damage to other organs: TB may spread to bones, the spinal cord, brain, lymph nodes, or skin, causing serious infections and tissue damage.
- Liver or kidney problems: Tuberculosis can affect the liver and kidneys, leading to inflammation and impaired function.
- Inflammation around the heart: TB can infect the pericardium (the membrane around the heart), causing inflammation and a condition known as pericarditis.
Prevention
Tuberculosis Treatment and Prevention Measures:
- Treatment: Complete the full prescribed course of antibiotics to effectively treat the infection and reduce the risk of transmission.
- Isolation: Stay home and limit contact with others during the contagious period, usually the first 2–3 weeks of treatment.
- Ventilation: Improve indoor ventilation by opening windows or using fans to help disperse airborne bacteria.
- Face masks: Wear a mask when around others to minimize the spread of infectious respiratory droplets.
- Cough etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of the tissue properly to prevent the spread of TB bacteria.
When to see a doctor
When to Seek Medical Attention for Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis (TB) can mimic other illnesses, making it essential to seek medical attention if you experience persistent or severe symptoms.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
- Chest pain
- Sudden, severe headache
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
Get Immediate or Urgent Care:
- Coughing up blood
- Blood in urine or stool
Additional Symptoms Requiring Medical Attention:
- Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- Night sweats
- Fever
- Loss of appetite