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Tuberculosis (TB)

Home Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious infectious disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body such as the spine, brain, or kidneys. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Treatment Options

TB is curable and treatable with a strict course of antibiotics over 6 to 9 months. Dr. Gayatri Nair provides:

  • Accurate diagnosis using sputum tests, chest X-rays, and GeneXpert
  • DOTS-based therapy (Directly Observed Treatment)
  • Management of drug-resistant TB (MDR/XDR-TB)
  • Monitoring for side effects and treatment adherence
  • Comprehensive care for extrapulmonary TB (TB affecting organs other than lungs)

Causes of TB

  • Bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) entering the body through airborne droplets
  • Close contact with a person who has active TB
  • Weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV, diabetes)
  • Poor nutrition and crowded living conditions

Common Symptoms

  • Persistent cough lasting more than 2 weeks
  • Blood in sputum
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fever and night sweats
  • Fatigue and chest pain
  • Loss of appetite

Prevention Tips

  • Ensure early detection and complete treatment
  • Wear masks and cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing
  • Good ventilation in homes and workplaces
  • TB vaccination (BCG) in children
  • Regular screening for high-risk individuals
  • Regular follow-ups for high-risk individuals