Summary about Tuberculosis in English
Book an appointment with the best doctor for Tuberculosis in Pakistan. We have enlisted the best specialists for TB in Pakistan at Marham based on experience, qualifications, fee, location, and timings.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, bones, and joints. TB can spread from person to person contact. The disease can be life-threatening if left untreated.
What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?
The symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) can vary depending on which part of the body is affected. However, the most common symptoms of TB include;
Persistent cough
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Blood in cough
Fatigue
Weight loss
Night sweats
Fever
Lymph node swelling
How can TB be Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of Tuberculosis (TB) typically involves;
Physical examination: A healthcare professional will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination to look for the symptoms.
Laboratory tests: A sample of sputum may be collected and analyzed for the presence of certain bacteria. Other laboratory tests include a blood test and a test for TB antigens.
Imaging: A chest x-ray or CT scan may be done to look inside the lungs.
Mantoux test: A skin test in which a small amount of fluid called tuberculin is injected under the skin usually in the forearm. If a person has been infected with TB, a hard, raised bump will appear at the site of the injection within 48-72 hours.
What is the Treatment of Tuberculosis?
The treatment for tuberculosis (TB) typically involves a combination of antibiotics to suppress the growth of the TB bacteria. The specific drugs and duration of treatment will depend on the individual case and the drug susceptibility of the TB strain.
Antibiotics: The most common first-line drugs for treating TB are isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. If TB is resistant to first-line drugs, a different combination of drugs may be used, such as fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides.
Hospitalization: In some cases, especially if the TB is severe, hospitalization is necessary. This allows for more intensive treatment and monitoring.
What is Multi-Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB)?
Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a type of tuberculosis that is resistant to two first-line anti-TB drugs, isoniazid, and rifampin. MDR-TB can occur when the bacteria are not completely killed during the treatment, thus allowing the remaining bacteria to develop resistance to these drugs.
MDR-TB requires a longer course of treatment which typically involves a combination of antibiotics, including fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides. The treatment may last up to two years.
What are the preventive measures for TB?
The following measures can help in the prevention of tuberculosis (TB);
Vaccination: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine can be given to protect against TB, especially in children. The vaccine is not very effective in preventing adult TB.
Isolation and infection control: People with active TB should be isolated to prevent the spread of the disease.
Testing and screening: People who are at high risk of TB should be tested and screened.
What are the Major Complications associated with Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis disease can cause a variety of complications, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening including;
These complications can occur with both drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB. Therefore, it is recommended to receive immediate treatment to prevent complications.
What are the factors that increase the risk of developing TB disease?
Factors that increase the risk of developing TB include;
Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive drugs
Crowded or poorly ventilated places
Close contact with someone who has active TB disease
Malnutrition
Smoking
Consult the best doctor for TB in Pakistan now to avoid any complications. You can also book a video consultation through Marham to discuss your symptoms with the most experienced doctor for Tuberculosis in Pakistan.