Meta Description: Learn about Tuberculosis (TB), its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and medications. Complete guide for prevention and care.
Primary Keywords: Tuberculosis, TB symptoms, TB treatment, TB medications, TB diagnosis
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), but can also affect other organs (extrapulmonary TB). TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Causes of Tuberculosis
Infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Close contact with someone who has active TB
Weakened immune system (HIV, diabetes, malnutrition)
Poor living conditions and overcrowding
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Pulmonary TB (lungs):
Persistent cough (more than 2–3 weeks)
Coughing up blood or mucus
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
General symptoms:
Fever and chills
Night sweats
Fatigue and weakness
Unintended weight loss
Loss of appetite
Extrapulmonary TB (other organs):
Swelling of lymph nodes
Joint pain or swelling
Abdominal pain
Symptoms vary depending on the affected organ
How TB is Diagnosed (Tests)
- Tuberculin Skin Test (Mantoux Test) – Checks for TB infection
- Blood Tests (IGRA) – Detects TB infection in blood
- Chest X-ray – Detects lung damage or TB lesions
- Sputum Test (Microscopy/Culture) – Detects TB bacteria in mucus
- PCR Test / GeneXpert – Detects TB bacteria and drug resistance
Treatment and Medications
TB is curable with proper medication. Standard treatment includes antibiotic therapy for 6–9 months:
First-line medications:
Isoniazid (INH)
Rifampicin (RIF)
Ethambutol (EMB)
Pyrazinamide (PZA)
Important points:
Complete the full course to prevent drug resistance
Monitor liver function if taking multiple drugs
For drug-resistant TB, second-line medications may be prescribed
Prevention of Tuberculosis
Avoid close contact with infected people
Use masks and maintain hygiene in crowded areas
Ensure proper ventilation in homes
Vaccination with BCG vaccine
Maintain a healthy immune system with proper diet and lifestyle
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you have:
Persistent cough over 2–3 weeks
Blood in sputum
Fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss
Exposure to TB in family or community
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Is TB contagious?
A: Yes, TB spreads through the air from person to person.
Q2: Can TB be completely cured?
A: Yes, with proper medication and completing the full treatment course.
Q3: How long does TB treatment last?
A: Usually 6–9 months depending on the type and severity of TB.
