The symptoms of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It mainly affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB remains a major health concern in many parts of the world, including Nigeria. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing complications and the spread of the infection.
We will explain the symptoms of tuberculosis, its causes, and why it’s important to get treated. If you suspect you have TB or need more information, seek help from qualified doctors via the Virtual Doctors App or download the Virtual Doctors Healthplus App on Google Play.
What Are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?
What Causes Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is caused by a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. When someone breathes in these airborne bacteria, they can become infected.
However, not everyone who is exposed to the bacteria becomes sick. There are two types of TB infections:
- Latent TB Infection: The bacteria live in the body without causing illness. People with latent TB do not have symptoms and cannot spread the disease to others. However, if left untreated, latent TB can develop into active TB disease.
- Active TB Disease: In this stage, the bacteria multiply and cause symptoms. This form of TB is contagious and can spread to others.
What Are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis develops slowly, and its symptoms may not appear for several weeks or months after the initial infection. The symptoms of TB vary depending on whether the disease is active or latent, and which part of the body is affected. Here are the key symptoms:
1. Persistent Cough
One of the hallmark symptoms of TB is a persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks. This cough may produce phlegm (mucus), and in some cases, it can be accompanied by blood.
2. Chest Pain
Individuals with TB may experience sharp or stabbing chest pain, especially when coughing or taking deep breaths.
3. Fever and Chills
Fever, often accompanied by chills, is a common symptom of active tuberculosis. The fever may be low-grade and recur over time, particularly in the evening or at night.
4. Night Sweats
Excessive sweating at night is another symptom of TB. It can be so severe that individuals wake up drenched in sweat, even when the room is cool.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss
People with TB often experience sudden and significant weight loss, despite not trying to lose weight. This is sometimes referred to as “wasting” or “consumption.”
6. Fatigue and Weakness
A general sense of tiredness and weakness is common in those suffering from TB. This extreme fatigue can make it difficult to carry out everyday activities.
7. Loss of Appetite
Along with weight loss, individuals may experience a decrease in appetite or lose interest in eating altogether.
8. Shortness of Breath
In advanced cases, tuberculosis can cause difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially if the infection has spread to the lungs.
Other Symptoms of TB
While TB primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), it can also spread to other parts of the body, leading to additional symptoms depending on the organ affected:
- TB of the Kidneys: May cause blood in the urine.
- TB of the Spine: Can lead to back pain and stiffness.
- TB of the Brain: May cause headaches, confusion, and in severe cases, meningitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis: When to Seek Medical Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if you’ve been in contact with someone who has TB, it’s important to seek medical help right away. TB is a serious disease, but it is treatable and curable if diagnosed early. Left untreated, TB can lead to serious health complications and even death.
How Is TB Diagnosed?
To diagnose tuberculosis, doctors typically perform several tests, including:
- Chest X-rays: To check for signs of TB in the lungs.
- Sputum Test: A test of the mucus you cough up to check for the presence of TB bacteria.
- Blood Tests: To detect the presence of TB bacteria in the body.
How to Get Treatment for Tuberculosis
TB is treated with a combination of antibiotics, which are usually taken for 6 to 9 months. It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve early, to ensure the bacteria are fully eliminated. Not completing the treatment can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is much harder to treat.
For treatment and expert medical advice, you can easily consult qualified doctors on the Virtual Doctors App. You can also download the Virtual Doctors Healthplus App on Google Play to schedule an appointment for further care and guidance.
Prevention of Tuberculosis
Preventing the spread of TB involves good hygiene practices and public health measures, such as:
- Wearing a mask if you are infected to prevent spreading the bacteria to others.
- Ensuring proper ventilation in rooms to reduce the concentration of bacteria in the air.
- Getting tested and treated promptly if you suspect you’ve been exposed to TB.
Tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease, but it can be effectively treated with early detection and appropriate medical care. If you are experiencing any symptoms of TB or have been in contact with someone who has the disease, seek medical attention immediately.
For professional guidance, register and book an appointment with a qualified doctor on the Virtual Doctors App or download the Virtual Doctors Healthplus App on Google Play. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, TB can be cured, allowing you to return to full health.