What is tuberculosis (TB), signs and symptoms?

Tuberculosis effects

Tuberculosis (TB) is a transferable disease that mainly affects the lungs. The bacteria are spread from one person to another through tiny droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. The increase of tuberculosis infections began rising in the year 1985 due to the occurrence of HIV. HIV and AIDS reduce a person’s immunity making it hard to fight TB germs. Drugs used to treat the disease are resisted by the disease. Different types of medications are recommended to do away with the infection.

Causes

Bacteria is the main cause of tuberculosis. It is spread through tiny droplets released into the air. This occurs when a person with tuberculosis sneezes, coughs or spits. Additionally, in most cases, one contracts it from people who live closely as compared to strangers.

Signs and symptoms of tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Some of the most common signs and symptoms of tuberculosis include

  • Prolonged cough.

Frequent coughs for more than three weeks could be a sign of tuberculosis. In most cases it is painful.

  • Fatigue

Increased tiredness after completing simple tasks.

  • Loss of appetite.

This is a lack of desire to eat. In most cases, it is accompanied by nausea.

  • Pain when breathing or coughing.

A person experiences pain mostly when coughing. This is an indication of tuberculosis. Additionally sweating at night, blood in the mucus, and unplanned weight loss are also signs.

Tuberculosis also affects other parts of the body such as the brain, kidneys, and spine. The signs and symptoms differ among the organs affected. An example is tuberculosis of the spine does not have similar signs to that of the kidneys.

Treatment and prevention of tuberculosis.

Upon testing positive some medications are prescribed by a doctor in order to prevent the spread and reduce the damage of tuberculosis. Some of the precautions one can take include

  • Putting on a face mask.
  • Proper room ventilation.
  • Avoiding public areas.

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