Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, though it can impact other parts of the body. Despite significant medical advancements, TB remains a global health concern. Understanding its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Understanding Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria. Inhalation of these droplets can lead to infection. TB can be classified as either latent or active:

• Latent TB: The bacteria remain in the body in an inactive state and cause no symptoms. However, they can become active, so treatment is essential to prevent this progression.
• Active TB: The bacteria are active and cause symptoms; this form is contagious.

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB disease) develops gradually, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the affected organ. Below are some common signs to watch for:

Persistent Cough

One of the earliest and most common symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis is a cough that lasts for three weeks or more. It may start dry but often progresses to producing mucus or even blood.

Chest Pain and Breathing Difficulty

As TB spreads in the lungs, it can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and discomfort when breathing or coughing.

Fatigue and Weakness

People with TB disease often feel excessively tired, even with sufficient rest. This prolonged fatigue can interfere with daily activities.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Significant weight loss without any changes in diet or lifestyle is a warning sign, as TB can affect metabolism and appetite.

Fever and Night Sweats

Frequent fevers, especially in the evening, and excessive night sweats are characteristic of tuberculosis signs. Many individuals wake up drenched in sweat.

Loss of Appetite

TB can suppress hunger, making it difficult for patients to eat enough, leading to further weakness and weight loss.

Coughing Up Blood (Haemoptysis)

In advanced cases, TB can cause damage to lung tissues, leading to coughing up blood or sputum. This symptom requires immediate medical attention.

Other Symptoms (Depending on the Affected Organ)

While pulmonary tuberculosis affects the lungs, TB can also impact other organs:

• Spinal TB: Can cause chronic back pain and stiffness.
• Kidney TB: May lead to blood in the urine.
• Brain TB (TB Meningitis): Causes headaches, confusion, and seizures.

Since tuberculosis symptoms can mimic other illnesses, it’s essential to seek medical help if any of these warning signs persist.

Causes of Tuberculosis

TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. Transmission occurs when an individual inhales airborne particles expelled by someone with active TB disease. Factors that increase the risk of contracting TB include:

• Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or certain cancers can compromise the immune system, making it harder to fight off TB bacteria.
• Substance Abuse: Prolonged drug or alcohol use weakens the immune system.
• Malnutrition: A lack of proper nutrition can impair the body’s defense mechanisms.
• Living or Working in High-Risk Settings: Environments such as prisons, nursing homes, or shelters can have higher TB transmission rates due to close quarters.
• Travel to or Residence in Areas with High TB Rates: Regions with higher prevalence of TB pose a greater risk.

Diagnosis of Tuberculosis

Diagnosing TB involves several methods:

• Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): A small amount of testing material is injected under the skin of the forearm. After 48-72 hours, a healthcare professional checks for a reaction, indicating TB exposure.
• Blood Tests: Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) measure the immune system’s response to TB bacteria.
• Chest X-rays: Used to detect lung changes caused by TB.
• Sputum Tests: Analyzing mucus from the lungs can confirm the presence of TB bacteria.

Treatment of Tuberculosis

Antibiotic Regimen

The treatment of tuberculosis (TB) typically involves a combination of antibiotics over 6 to 9 months. This extended period is necessary to fully eradicate the infection and prevent relapse. The commonly prescribed medications include Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide, each targeting different aspects of the TB bacteria.

Completing the Treatment Course

It’s essential for patients to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the treatment is finished. Discontinuing the medication too early can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is much harder to treat and requires a more complex regimen.

Monitoring and Managing Side Effects

During treatment, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor progress, adjust medications if necessary, and manage any side effects. For those with drug-resistant TB, more intensive treatment and longer duration may be required.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms such as a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, fever, or night sweats, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early detection and treatment are vital for preventing complications and transmission to others.

If you’re in Bangalore and experiencing persistent cough, fatigue, or other tuberculosis symptoms, it’s important to get checked early. Visiting a trusted pulmonology hospital in Bangalore, such as SPARSH Hospital, and consulting renowned pulmonologists in Bangalore can help with accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure better recovery outcomes.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge. Understanding its causes, recognising symptoms, and adhering to prescribed treatments are crucial steps in managing and preventing the spread of this disease. Public health initiatives and personal vigilance play pivotal roles in combating TB.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the causes and symptoms of tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Symptoms include a persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, chills, and loss of appetite.

What are the symptoms and treatment of TB?

Symptoms of TB encompass a prolonged cough, chest discomfort, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), fatigue, unintended weight loss, fever, night sweats, chills, and reduced appetite. Treatment involves a regimen of antibiotics taken over 6 to 9 months, including medications like isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide.

How is TB diagnosed and treated?

Doctors use several tests to confirm tuberculosis, depending on the symptoms and severity.

• Diagnosis: TB is detected using a Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), blood tests (IGRAs), chest X-rays, and sputum analysis to identify the bacteria.
• Treatment: TB is treated with a six-month antibiotic regimen, including Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide. Completing the full course is crucial to prevent drug resistance.