Often referred to as TB, tuberculosis is an infection of the lungs that is caused by bacteria. Like other respiratory illnesses, TB is spread via infected droplets whenever a person sneezes or coughs. It’s most often spread after prolonged contact with an infected person, such as at home, at work, or at school. TB sometimes spreads to other areas of the body, such as the kidneys, brain, or spine.
You must undergo testing to determine whether you have the inactive form of TB. If you have the active form, you will notice the following symptoms:
These symptoms require immediate assessment by a doctor to prevent more serious effects from occurring. Timely medical treatment will also limit the spread of TB from person to person.
Breathing in infected droplets is the only way to catch this infection, as it cannot be passed along via food or objects. However, certain people have a greater risk of acquiring the illness as compared to others. Accordingly, risk factors include:
In addition to a physical exam that checks lung function, TB can also be diagnosed via a skin test. The doctor will inject a small amount of a protein taken from TB bacteria, and the injection site will become swollen within 48 to 72 hours if a person is infected. Doctors can also follow up with an additional blood test to see how your immune system will react to TB-causing bacteria. Diagnostic imaging is also used to determine whether the lungs have undergone any changes as a result of the infection.
People with inactive and active forms of TB can be provided drugs to eliminate the bacteria from their body. It’s often necessary to take two or more drugs, particularly when a person is diagnosed with a drug-resistant form of the illness. It may also be necessary to use medication for a year or longer to completely clear the infection. It’s crucial that patients complete the recommended drug regimen to ensure treatment is effective.
It’s not possible to completely avoid infections, especially if you live in a high-risk area or work in the healthcare industry. Managing chronic diseases and conditions can ensure good immune function, which will help your body fight off bacteria effectively. If you’re diagnosed with TB, you must also take steps to avoid infecting others. Stay home and isolate yourself if possible. When around friends and family, wear a mask to prevent the spread of infected droplets. Good ventilation can also enhance indoor air quality and stop the illness from spreading.