Tuberculosis (TB): Prevention, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Tuberculosis or commonly called TB is a disease that is caused due to bacteria. It usually damages the lungs and also the other organs of the body. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), UAE has the lowest percentage of TB cases. In 2002, out of 168,700 cases reported from 22 countries, only 90 were from UAE. However, globally, TB is still cited as a major health hazard.

TB Causes

TB is a highly infectious disease spread through the air by someone who is already having the bacteria in their body sneezes, coughs, speaks or spits.

1. Since the 1980s, it is found that tuberculosis is caused due to the dramatic spread of HIV, a virus that causes AIDS. The HIV damages the whole immune system which makes it challenging to control TB.
2. The first antibiotic to kill the TB bacteria was developed 60 years ago. Since then, the bacteria have grown resistance towards these antibiotics.
3. If a person is suffering from diabetes, cancer, malnutrition or other diseases, his immunity system is likely to become weak that makes him susceptible to TB.
4. Consumption of tobacco, alcoholism, living in refuge area, improper medical care are some other reasons for Tuberculosis (TB).

Recognizing TB is crucial. The primary symptoms help in diagnosing the disease.

Some Common TB Symptoms

• Coughing that lasts for more than 3-4 weeks
• Blood coming out while coughing
• Fever
• Chest pain or pain while breathing Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Night sweats

If you find these symptoms, you should immediately consult your doctor and take necessary treatment before they worsen.

TB Treatment

Tuberculosis is curable. More than 20 drugs have been developed which are used in combination for at least six months based on the severity and occurrence of the disease in an individual. However, the Tuberculosis treatment will only be successful if it has been taken diligently for the required complete length of time.

It is wise to prevent TB before it occurs. Some preventive measures are vital to answering how to prevent TB infection?

Some Simple TB Prevention Tips

• Vaccination

  The infants are vaccinated with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Vaccination in those countries where TB is prevalent.

• Protect your family

  If you are suffering from TB, you can prevent your family from getting infected. Stay at home in isolation for three weeks after the treatment is started so that the infection won’t spread. Ventilate the room. Use tissue, handkerchief, or mask to cover your mouth.

The control of tuberculosis is possible with proper care, preventive measure and adequate medication. A preventive health checkup is always recommended for diagnosis and treatment recommendation.