Tuberculosis (TB): Know the Signs. Protect Your Lungs.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body such as the spine, brain, or kidneys. It is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or talks.

TB is preventable, treatable, and curable—but only with early detection and proper medical care.

How Does TB Spread?

When a person with active TB in the lungs breathes out bacteria, others nearby may inhale the germs. However, not everyone infected becomes sick. There are two types:

• Latent TB: The bacteria are present but inactive. No symptoms, not contagious.

• Active TB: The bacteria multiply and cause illness. This form is contagious and needs immediate treatment.

Common Symptoms of Active TB:

• Persistent cough for more than 2–3 weeks

• Coughing up blood or sputum (mucus)

• Chest pain

• Fever and night sweats

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue and weakness

• Loss of appetite

If left untreated, TB can become life-threatening and cause severe lung damage or spread to other organs.

Who’s at Risk?

• People with weakened immune systems (HIV/AIDS, diabetes)

• Close contacts of someone with TB

• Healthcare workers

• Malnourished individuals

• Smokers

• People living in crowded or poorly ventilated environments

Diagnosis and Treatment:

TB is diagnosed using tests such as chest X-rays, sputum tests, Mantoux (skin) test, and blood tests. Treatment involves a long course of antibiotics, usually for 6 to 9 months.

It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment even if you start feeling better—stopping early can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is much harder to treat.