Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention - Everything you need to know about this contagious infectious disease

Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention - Everything you need to know about this contagious infectious disease

Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention – Everything you need to know about this contagious infectious disease

Introduction

Tuberculosis is a widespread contagious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other organs such as the kidneys, brain and bones. In this article you will learn all about the causes, symptoms and prevention measures of tuberculosis.

Causes

Tuberculosis is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, the bacteria can be spread into the air and inhaled by others. High levels of overcrowding, poor ventilation and inadequate hygiene promote the spread of the disease.

It is important to understand that not everyone who comes into contact with the bacterium will inevitably develop tuberculosis. For most people with a healthy immune system, the body can contain the bacteria and prevent the disease from developing. However, factors such as a weakened immune system, poor nutrition, HIV infections or diabetes can increase the risk of developing tuberculosis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tuberculosis can vary depending on the organ affected. Pulmonary tuberculosis, the most common form of the disease, typically presents with the following symptoms:

– Prolonged cough that lasts for two weeks or longer
– Sputum, which may contain blood or mucus
– Chest pain
– Shortness of breath or shortness of breath
– Weight loss
– Loss of appetite
– Tiredness and general malaise
– Night sweats
- Fever

In extrapulmonary tuberculosis, which affects other organs, symptoms may vary depending on the organ affected. For example, renal tuberculosis can result in flank pain and blood in the urine, while central nervous system tuberculosis can result in headaches, confusion, and neurological problems.

diagnosis

Diagnosing tuberculosis usually involves a combination of medical tests and examinations. Some of the commonly used tests include:

– Skin test (tuberculin skin test): Also known as Mantoux test, this test is done by injecting a small amount of a tuberculosis antigen into the skin and then checking the reaction. A positive reaction indicates that the organism has come into contact with the bacterium, but does not necessarily mean that the person is sick.
– Chest X-rays: X-rays can help detect signs of active tuberculosis in the lungs.
– Sputum sample: A sputum sample is collected and examined in the laboratory for the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
– Blood tests: There are various blood tests that can be used to diagnose a tuberculosis infection or to monitor the progress of treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for tuberculosis usually involves a combination of antibiotics over a long period of time. It is important to consistently take the prescribed medications and follow the suggested treatment plan to completely eliminate the bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading. If treatment is not carried out properly, there is a risk that the bacteria will become resistant and tuberculosis will become more difficult to treat.

When treating tuberculosis, it is also important to prevent the infection from spreading. This can be achieved through good hygiene practices such as covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with infected people.

Prevention

The best way to avoid tuberculosis is prevention. Here are some important preventive measures:

– Vaccination: There is a vaccination against tuberculosis known as BCG vaccination. This vaccination can reduce the risk of severe forms of the disease in children. However, it is important to note that the BCG vaccination is not 100% effective and does not provide complete protection.
– Early detection and treatment of infections: People who are in close contact with people with tuberculosis or who develop symptoms of the disease should seek medical examination as early as possible.
– Hygiene practices: Washing hands regularly, especially before eating or after contact with potentially infected surfaces, can help reduce the risk of transmitting tuberculosis. Covering your mouth with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing can also help minimize the spread of the bacteria.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How is tuberculosis transmitted?
Tuberculosis is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, the bacteria are dispersed into the air and can be inhaled by other people.

2. Which organs can be affected by tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis can affect the lungs (pulmonary tuberculosis) and other organs such as the kidneys, brain, and bones (extrapulmonary tuberculosis).

3. How is tuberculosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis of tuberculosis is made through medical tests and examinations, including skin tests, x-rays, sputum samples, and blood tests.

4. How is tuberculosis treated?
Tuberculosis is usually treated with a combination of antibiotics over a long period of time. Consistently taking the prescribed medication is important to completely eliminate the bacteria.

5. How can tuberculosis be prevented?
Prevention of tuberculosis includes measures such as vaccination, early detection and treatment of infections, and good hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis is a serious contagious infectious disease that is widespread worldwide. It can affect different organs and cause a variety of symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing the disease from spreading. Vaccination and good hygiene practices can minimize the risk of infection. It is important to be aware and have extensive knowledge about tuberculosis to prevent its infection and control its spread.