Tuberculosis (TB)

There are several tuberculosis symptoms which can be seen in its early stage and they are:

• Chest pain
• Cough lasting for more than three weeks
• Coughing up blood
• Weakness
• Night sweats
• Appetite loss
• Weight loss
• Blood in urine
• Back pain and stiffness
• Nausea, consciousness loss, and vomiting

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the primary cause of tuberculosis because it is infected through infected droplets in the air. If droplets enter the air once, anyone can catch the virus. Someone can transmit TB bacteria by sneezing, coughing, speaking, and singing.

Tuberculosis diagnosis involves two kinds of tests which are the Mantoux tuberculin skin test and a blood test known as interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). Other tests which are usually ordered to determine the infection are lab tests on sputum and lung fluid, blood tests, chest X-ray, and computed tomography (CT) scans.

Tuberculosis is curable with on-time diagnosis and the right antibiotics. The antibiotic type and treatment entirely depend on the age of the patient, overall health, whether the patient has latent or active TB, and if the TB strain is drug resistant. Doctors usually recommend different medications for the treatment of tuberculosis such as Isoniazid, Rifampin, Rifapentine, Pyrazinamide, etc.

It is important to take the medication as prescribed to kill the bacterium. There are certain forms of TB which are resistant to medications and the doctor must recommend more than one drug to treat TB.

Here are tips that can help to prevent tuberculosis:

• Washing hands more frequently
• Coughing into the elbow and covering the mouth while coughing
• Avoid close contact with people
• Ensure taking the medications on time
• Don’t return to work or school until the problem is treated properly

Rukmani Birla Hospital, Jaipur, multispecialty healthcare service must be your number one choice if you are planning for tuberculosis treatment. We are a multi-special and NABH-accredited hospital offering matchless care to our patients for years now. For every health problem or severe health condition, we have departments incorporating the professionals and most experienced doctors in the field. The team not only holds experience in their areas but also is well-informed about the latest and advanced technologies. With our integrated smart state-of-the-art technology, we are not only offering quick and affordable healthcare services but also accuracy is ensured with utmost satisfaction among the patients.