Tuberculosis

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, bones, and brain. TB is transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air. When someone else inhales these droplets, they can become infected.

What causes Tuberculosis?

The primary cause of TB is being infected with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. This can occur through the inhalation of tiny droplets containing the bacteria that are coughed up by someone with active TB in their lungs. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even sings, they release these droplets into the air, and other individuals nearby may inhale them.

Another key cause of TB is weakened immune systems. People with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are at a higher risk of developing active TB if they have been exposed to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. This is because their immune systems are not as effective at fighting off the infection, allowing the bacteria to multiply and cause the disease.

Close and prolonged contact with someone who has TB is also a common cause. Living or working in crowded conditions, where there is poor ventilation, increases the risk of transmission. This is why TB is often associated with crowded prisons, homeless shelters, and certain urban areas.

Furthermore, factors such as poverty and malnutrition contribute to the spread of TB. Limited access to healthcare, crowded living conditions, and inadequate nutrition can all weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to TB infection. Additionally, individuals who smoke or misuse substances, such as alcohol or drugs, are at higher risk of developing TB or experiencing more severe symptoms.

What precautions you should take for Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also involve other organs. It is important to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of TB and protect oneself and others from contracting the disease. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:

Good respiratory hygiene: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. This helps to prevent the release of airborne particles that may contain TB bacteria into the surrounding air. Conscientiously dispose of used tissues in a closed container or bag.

Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in living and working spaces. Adequate air exchange can help dilute and remove the infectious particles from the environment, reducing the risk of transmission.

Isolation: Patients diagnosed with active TB should be placed in well-ventilated rooms or areas specifically designed for isolation. This prevents the spread of the bacteria to others who may be in close proximity. Healthcare facilities or hospitals typically have dedicated isolation facilities for this purpose.

Wear a mask: If you have TB symptoms and need to be in close contact with others, it is important to wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose. This is especially crucial when visiting healthcare facilities or crowded areas, as it provides an added layer of protection for those around you.

Practice good hand hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching potentially contaminated surfaces. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also be used when soap and water are not readily available.

Follow treatment protocol: If diagnosed with TB, it is essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider. This reduces the risk of developing drug-resistant strains and helps to eliminate the bacteria from your body.

Avoid close contact: Limit close contact with individuals who have active TB until they have completed appropriate treatment and are no longer infectious. This reduces the chances of being exposed to TB bacteria.

Screening and vaccination: Regularly screen high-risk populations, such as healthcare workers, individuals in close contact with TB patients, and people with weakened immune systems. Vaccination with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) may also be recommended in certain countries, although its effectiveness varies.

What are the main symptoms of Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, bones, and spine. Recognizing the symptoms of TB is crucial for early detection and treatment.

The main symptoms of TB can vary depending on whether it is active or latent. In cases of active TB, which is when the infection is actively multiplying in the body, the most common symptom is a persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks. The cough may produce thick, yellow, green, or bloody sputum (phlegm), and it may be accompanied by chest pain. Other symptoms include fatigue, unintentional weight loss, loss of appetite, night sweats, and fever. These general symptoms may also be present in other illnesses, so it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis.

When TB bacteria are present in the body but are not actively multiplying, the condition is known as latent TB. Most people with latent TB do not have any symptoms and cannot spread the bacteria to others. However, in some cases, the immune system may become weakened or compromised, allowing the latent infection to progress to active TB. In these cases, the symptoms mentioned earlier may develop. Additionally, individuals with latent TB may experience prolonged cough, mild chest discomfort, and fatigue.

How Tuberculosis is diagnosed?

Diagnosing tuberculosis (TB) can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other respiratory illnesses. However, there are several tests that can help in the diagnosis of TB.

One of the most common tests is the tuberculin skin test, also known as the Mantoux test. During this test, a small amount of tuberculin, a substance derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is injected just beneath the skin. After 48 to 72 hours, a healthcare professional will examine the injection site to check for a reaction. If the person has been exposed to the TB bacteria, the area will be raised and red.

An alternative to the tuberculin skin test is the interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). This blood test detects the release of interferon-gamma, produced by the immune system in response to TB antigens. It is a more specific test than the tuberculin skin test and does not cross-react with the BCG vaccine, which can interfere with the skin test results.

When the results of these tests are positive, further diagnostic tests are performed. This may include obtaining sputum samples from the patient and examining them under a microscope for the presence of acid-fast bacilli, a characteristic of TB. The samples may also be cultured to isolate the bacteria and determine their drug susceptibility. Additionally, imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans can help identify abnormalities in the lungs that may be indicative of TB infection.

What are some of the main medical treatments for Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs, but can also spread to other parts of the body. The main medical treatments for TB involve a combination of antibiotics. The most common and effective treatment is a course of antibiotics called isoniazid and rifampin, which are usually taken together for a period of at least six months.

Sometimes, additional antibiotics such as pyrazinamide and ethambutol may be prescribed, depending on the severity of the infection and the results of drug susceptibility testing. These antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that cause TB and preventing their growth.

It is essential to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is completely eradicated and to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of TB. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to manage any potential side effects.

Which supplements work best with Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. While the mainstay of treatment involves antibiotics, certain supplements can be beneficial when used in conjunction with conventional medication.

Vitamin D: Research has shown that people with TB often have low levels of vitamin D, and supplementation may enhance the effectiveness of drug therapy. Vitamin D has been found to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Please consult with your healthcare provider for proper dosing recommendations.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Found predominantly in fish oil, these healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties and may help decrease the severity of TB symptoms. Incorporating omega-3 supplements into your diet can provide additional benefits to your overall health.

Vitamin C: Known for its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C supplementation may help in the treatment of TB. It may reduce inflammation, support the immune response, and help prevent complications associated with the disease. Talk to your healthcare provider about the appropriate dosage for you.

Zinc: A trace mineral that plays a crucial role in immune function, Zinc supplementation may help optimize your body’s defense against TB. It is important to note that excessive zinc intake can have adverse effects, so it’s vital to seek guidance from your doctor regarding the proper dosage.

Frequently Asked Question on Tuberculosis

Q: What is tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body like the spine, kidney, and brain. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and someone else inhales the bacteria.

Q: How do I know if I have tuberculosis?

Common symptoms of tuberculosis include persistent cough for more than two weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, night sweats, and shortness of breath. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Q: How is tuberculosis diagnosed?

To diagnose tuberculosis, a healthcare professional will typically perform a combination of tests. These may include a physical examination, a chest X-ray, a sputum test (where a sample of mucus is analyzed for the presence of the bacteria), and a tuberculin skin test (also known as a Mantoux test) which checks for a reaction to a small amount of TB protein injected under the skin.

Q: Is tuberculosis treatable?

Yes, tuberculosis is treatable with appropriate medication. The standard treatment for active TB usually involves taking multiple antibiotics for a period of at least six months. It is crucial to complete the entire course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure effective eradication of the infection and reduce the risk of drug-resistant TB.

Q: Can tuberculosis be cured completely?

Yes, when treated correctly and adhering to the recommended treatment plan, tuberculosis can be cured completely. However, it is important to note that treatment duration can be lengthy, and failure to complete the full course of treatment can lead to treatment failure, recurrence of TB, or development of drug-resistant strains of the bacteria.

Q: Is tuberculosis contagious?

Yes, tuberculosis is highly contagious. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing bacteria into the environment. However, not everyone exposed to the bacteria will develop active TB. People with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) do not show symptoms and cannot spread the infection to others, but they can develop active TB in the future if their immune system weakens.

Q: How can tuberculosis be prevented?

Tuberculosis can be prevented through a combination of strategies. These include early identification and treatment of active cases, screening of high-risk individuals, providing preventive treatment to those with latent tuberculosis infection, implementing infection control measures in healthcare settings, improving access to affordable healthcare, and promoting public awareness and education about TB.

Q: Can tuberculosis be transmitted during pregnancy?

Although the risk of transmitting tuberculosis from mother to unborn child is relatively low, it is still possible. Pregnant women with active TB should seek immediate medical attention as untreated tuberculosis can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby. Treatment during pregnancy is possible, and healthcare providers can adapt the medication regimen to ensure the safety of the mother and the unborn child.

Q: Is it safe to be around someone with tuberculosis?

Being around someone with tuberculosis can increase the risk of contracting the infection, especially if you have prolonged close contact with the person or if they have untreated or drug-resistant TB. It is important to take necessary precautions, such as wearing a mask and practicing good hand hygiene, when in close proximity to someone with TB.

Q: Can BCG vaccine prevent tuberculosis?

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is commonly used in many countries to prevent severe forms of tuberculosis in children. However, its effectiveness in preventing all forms of TB, particularly in adults, is limited. BCG vaccine is not recommended as a primary method for preventing TB in low-burden countries but can still offer some protection against severe forms of the disease.

Dt. Mary Ahern

MS, RD

Dietitian

Mary Ahern, MS, RD is a registered dietitian and health writer who is passionate about plant-based nutrition and achieving better health by balancing time between the kitchen and the gym. Currently she's pursuing PhD from University of Arizona