Are you worried about a persistent cough? Let's talk about Tuberculosis (TB)

Do you also have a cough that has been going on for more than two weeks? Perhaps you feel a little uncomfortable and tired at the same time? We often forget about such things, thinking that it is just a common cold. But sometimes it can be something that needs a little more attention. Today we are talking about tuberculosis, or TB as we all know it, a disease that is still seen in our country, but can be completely cured if treated properly.

Simply put, what is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacterial infection. It is caused by a type of bacteria called `Mycobacterium tuberculosis` . This disease mainly affects our lungs. However, in some cases, this bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, for example, to our spinal cord, brain, and kidneys.

But here's something important to know. Not everyone who is infected with the TB germ will get sick. Some people have the bacteria in their bodies but they don't show any symptoms, just "sleeping." We call this condition latent TB . There are people who have it their entire lives without any symptoms.

What are the symptoms of active TB?

If you have latent TB, you will not have any symptoms. However, with active TB, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms. It is very important to be aware of these.

Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis

As we mentioned earlier, the TB bacteria are not limited to the lungs. They can also travel to other parts of the body, causing symptoms specific to that organ.

• If the brain is affected: Meningitis can cause an infection of the membranes covering the brain.
• If the spine is affected: A condition called ``Pott's disease'' can occur, causing back pain and sciatica.
• If the lymph nodes are affected: Swelling of the lymph nodes in places like the neck.

How is tuberculosis transmitted from one person to another?

This is a very important point. Tuberculosis is spread through the air. When a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, talks, sings, or laughs, the bacteria are released into the air in small droplets. If a healthy person nearby breathes in this air, the bacteria can enter their body.

Imagine that someone at your workplace has had a cough for months. They ignore it. If you work in the same room together every day, there is a risk of spreading the disease.

Who is at higher risk of developing tuberculosis?

Although anyone can develop tuberculosis, some people are at higher risk.

People at higher risk of contracting the disease:

• People who have lived in or traveled to a country where tuberculosis is common.
• People who live with or are in close contact with a person with tuberculosis.
• People who work or live in crowded places such as prison camps, refugee camps, and nursing homes.
• Those working in the health sector.

People at higher risk of developing active disease:

These people are more likely to develop an active disease if the virus enters their body. The main reason for this is a weakened immune system.

• People infected with HIV
• Young children and elderly people
• People with chronic diseases such as diabetes and kidney disease
• People undergoing chemotherapy for cancer
• People who have undergone organ transplants
• People who inject drugs
• People suffering from malnutrition

How does a doctor confirm this disease?

If you suspect you have tuberculosis, you should definitely see a doctor . The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, examine you, and then order several tests to confirm the disease.

• Sputum test: This is the most important test. A sample of your sputum is taken and examined under a microscope to see if the TB bacteria are present.
• Chest X-ray: This can check for any changes in the lungs due to the disease.
• Skin test (Mantoux test): A small amount of protein solution is injected under the skin and the area is checked for swelling after 48-72 hours.
• Blood tests: This disease can also be diagnosed through some modern blood tests.

What are the treatments for tuberculosis?

Here's the good news. Tuberculosis is a completely curable disease. It is treated with a combination of several specific antibiotics.

Some of the commonly prescribed medications are:

• `Isoniazid`
• `Rifampin`
• `Ethambutol`
• `Pyrazinamide`

These medications can be obtained free of charge from government chest clinics.

How can you protect yourself from tuberculosis?

• BCG vaccine: In our country, the BCG vaccine is given to a child as soon as he is born to protect him from tuberculosis. This provides protection against the severe tuberculosis conditions (especially `TB Meningitis`) that can occur in young children.
• Good hygiene practices: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Good ventilation: Keep air circulating well in homes and workplaces.
• If you are a sick person: If you have active tuberculosis, avoid close contact with others for the first few weeks after starting treatment. Seek advice from your doctor.
• Nutritious diet: Eating a balanced diet can help keep the body's immune system at a good level.

If you have these symptoms, or if you have been in contact with someone who has TB, don't be afraid or embarrassed to see your doctor as soon as possible. The sooner you can diagnose the disease and start treatment, the faster you can recover and prevent others from getting sick.

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