الدرن (السُّل) (Tuberculosis)

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Tuberculosis (TB)

 

On this page, you will find everything you need to know about Tuberculosis (TB).

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis occurs due to exposure to a type of bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It often resides in the lungs but may also be present outside the lungs in the kidneys, spinal cord, and brain. TB spreads from an infected person to others through the air when the infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits.

Types of Tuberculosis

  1. A person may have TB without experiencing any symptoms; thus, there are two types of TB:
  2. Latent TB: TB bacteria live in the person’s body but do not cause symptoms and are not infectious.

Active TB: The individual shows symptoms and can spread the disease.

What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)?

  • Common symptoms of TB include:
  • Persistent coughing lasting more than 3 weeks, often producing phlegm that may be blood-stained.
  • Chest pain.
  •  General weakness and fatigue.
  • Weight loss.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Fever (elevated body temperature).
  • Night sweats.
  • Swelling in the neck.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Abdominal pain.

Frequent headaches.

What Causes Tuberculosis (TB)?

TB is caused by exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through the air from an infected person when they cough, sneeze, or spit.

  • Anyone can contract TB,but some individuals aremore susceptible to it:
  • People living in countries with high TB rates, such as South Africa, India, China, Mexico, and some East Asian countries.
  • Individuals who are inclose and prolonged contactwith an infected person..
  • Those infectedwith HIV/AIDS..
  • Individuals with healthconditions that weakenthe immune system,such as diabetes..
  • Those undergoing treatments that weaken the immune system, such as chemotherapy for cancer patients.
  • Young children or elderly people, as their immune systems are less robust compared with those of healthy adults.

Individuals who abuse drugs or consume alcohol.

How is Tuberculosis Diagnosed?:

  1. The doctor will take the patient’s medical history and perform a physical exam. Additional tests may be ordered as needed:
    • If TB of the lungs is suspected:
    • Blood tests.
    • Skin tests.
    • Sputum sampleanalysis.
  2. Chest X-rays.

A sample of cerebrospinal fluid is taken to ensure that the brain and spinal cord are not affected by TB, which is done via a needle in the lower back to withdraw a fluid sample.

How is Tuberculosis Treated?

  • Treatment involves several measures as necessary, including:
  1. – Antibiotics:
  2. Latent TB Treatment: Typically involves taking medication for 3 to 9 months. This treatment helps prevent the progression of latent TB into active TB in the future.

Active TB Treatment: Usually requires taking medication for 6 to 12 months. It is crucial to follow the treatment guidelines and instructions from the physician to ensure a successful treatment plan.

  • How to Prevent Tuberculosis (TB)?
  • Preventing latent TB infection from developing into active TB is essential. If a person tests positive for latent TB infection, their doctor may recommend medication to prevent active TB.
    • If you have active TB:
    • Stay at home and avoid direct contact with people.
    • Ensure that the room is well-ventilated, as TB bacteria spread more easily in closed spaces.
    • Cover your mouth when coughing, speaking, or sneezing.

Wear a face mask. Wearing it when around others during the first three weeks of treatment may reduce the risk of transmission.

What are the Complications of Tuberculosis (TB)?

  • Without treatment, TB can be fatal and can affect the lungs and other body parts. Its effects include:
  • Spine Pain: Back pain and stiffness are common complications for TB patients.
  •  Jointdamage.
  • Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes covering the brain.
  • Liver or kidney problems.

Heart disorders: Rarely, TB may affect the tissues surrounding the heart, causing inflammation and fluid retention that may interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

When Should You See a Doctor?

 

If you have a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, it is advisable to see a doctor.

FAQs:

What is TB Bacteria Drug Resistance?

Drug resistance refers to the bacteria’s ability to withstand drugs used for treatment. This resistance occurs due to non-compliance and lack of adherence to the treatment plan provided by healthcare professionals, or stopping medicine before the treatment period ends.

How Does Tuberculosis Spread?

TB spreads through the air from one person to another. TB germs spread when a person with TB coughs, sneezes, or spits.

Why must a complete TB treatment be administered, even if no symptoms are present?

Due to the risk of its development into active and chronic TB.

Can Latent TB Turn into Active TB?

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