Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious lung infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Early detection, proper treatment, and preventive measures are essential to control its spread and safeguard public health.
Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This highly contagious disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, making it a significant public health concern worldwide.
Symptoms
Dr. Deepak Prajapat, Senior Consultant – Pulmonology and Critical Care at Metro Hospital in Noida, highlights the following symptoms of pulmonary TB:
- Persistent coughing
- Fever
- Unintentional weight loss
- Night sweats
- Breathlessness and shortness of breath
- Hemoptysis (blood or blood-stained sputum)
Dr. Pratibha Dogra, Senior Consultant – Pulmonology at Marengo Asia Hospital in Gurugram, adds:
- Persistent cough: Lasts for three weeks or more, often with phlegm or blood.
- Chest pain: Discomfort while coughing or inhaling deeply.
- Fatigue and weakness: Extreme tiredness and lack of energy.
- Weight loss: Sudden, unexplained appetite loss and significant weight loss.
- Fever and night sweats: Low-grade fever and profuse night sweating.
- Difficulty breathing: Severe breathing issues as the disease progresses.
Risk Factors
According to Dr. Deepak Prajapat, several factors increase the likelihood of developing pulmonary TB:
- Diabetes: Compromises the immune system, increasing susceptibility.
- Malnutrition: Weakens the body’s defenses against bacterial infections.
- Close contact with TB patients: Increases exposure risk.
- Immunocompromised states: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive medications weaken the immune system.
Dr. Pratibha Dogra emphasizes additional risk factors:
- Crowded living conditions: Nursing homes, high-risk jobs like healthcare.
- Substance abuse: Alcohol and narcotics weaken the immune system.
Treatment
Dr. Deepak Prajapat explains that treating pulmonary TB involves antitubercular medicines or antibiotic combinations administered for several months to eradicate the bacteria. Supportive care to maintain proper nutrition and overall health is essential, and doctors must closely monitor patients to ensure effective treatment and manage potential side effects.
Prevention
Dr. Pratibha Dogra recommends several preventive measures:
- BCG vaccination: For newborns and children in high-risk areas to protect against severe forms of TB.
- Early detection and treatment: Critical to prevent the spread.
- Infection control techniques: Proper ventilation, face mask use, and isolation in hospital settings.
- Contact tracing: Identifying and screening individuals in close contact with active TB patients for early detection and treatment.
By understanding the symptoms, risks, and treatments, and adhering to preventive measures, the spread of pulmonary tuberculosis can be effectively controlled.