Tuberculosis is a disease that is still a major health problem worldwide and affects the lives of millions of people. This disease, which has a long history, is a serious infection that can lead to death, especially by affecting the lungs. Today, although it is a preventable and treatable disease, it has still become a common problem in many countries and has difficulties in controlling it. In this article, we will talk about what tuberculosis is, its symptoms, treatment and prevention.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a disease also known medically as tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacteria usually settles in the lungs, but can spread to other organs.
Symptoms of tuberculosis include prolonged cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. These symptoms may be mild or almost non-existent. Therefore, tuberculosis can be confused with other diseases.
Tuberculosis is transmitted by inhaling bacteria released into the air during coughing. An infected person can spread tuberculosis germs to other people while breathing. Therefore, tuberculosis is more common in environments where there are often crowded and poor hygiene conditions.
Tuberculosis is diagnosed using methods such as lung x-ray, sputum test and blood tests. Treatment is with antibiotics and usually takes a long time. Additionally, it is important to complete the treatment completely. Otherwise, the infection may occur again and a resistant strain of bacteria may develop.
Tuberculosis is still a major health problem worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. Therefore, it is very important to know the symptoms of the disease and take early measures for diagnosis and treatment. At the same time, paying attention to hygiene rules and limiting close contact with infected people will also help prevent the spread.
Is Tuberculosis Contagious?
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that affects people's lungs and can be transmitted through breathing. This disease, caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is usually spread through breathing, such as sneezing and coughing.
To give a clear answer about whether tuberculosis is contagious or not, yes, tuberculosis is contagious. Because the disease is highly contagious, it is important for patients to be treated and cured. Otherwise, patients can transmit tuberculosis to other people.
The risk of patients spreading tuberculosis varies depending on whether they are being treated. An untreated case increases the risk of transmitting the infection by breathing in germs released into the air when coughing or sneezing. In a treated case, the risk of being contagious decreases as the microbes are killed after a few weeks of appropriate drug treatment.
Tuberculosis can spread between family members living in the same household or people in close contact. Additionally, the risk of tuberculosis transmission is higher in closed and crowded environments. However, brief contact of a generally healthy person with a tuberculosis patient is unlikely to cause infection. However, people with weak immune systems, HIV/AIDS patients, diabetics and individuals with other chronic diseases are groups at higher risk of infection.
Several precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of transmitting tuberculosis. First of all, it is important to keep tuberculosis patients in isolation as much as possible. The patient should remain in a separate room or compartment whenever possible and keep contact with other people to a minimum. The patient must cover his mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of his arm when coughing or sneezing. In addition, people diagnosed with tuberculosis should be started on appropriate drug treatment and this treatment should be followed regularly.
How is Tuberculosis Transmitted?
Tuberculosis is most commonly transmitted through the air. This occurs as a result of another person inhaling the infected droplets that the infected person emits into the environment while breathing. These droplets can infect others who are in close contact with an infected person.
Apart from this, tuberculosis can also be transmitted in other ways. For example, the infection can spread if contaminated droplets fall into food or water from an infected person's cough or sneeze. There is also a risk of sexual transmission of tuberculosis, but this is very rare.
What Causes Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease transmitted through breathing, especially affecting the lungs. So, what are the causes of tuberculosis?
Transmission of bacteria: Tuberculosis is usually transmitted through inhalation of droplets coughed by an infected person. These droplets contain tuberculosis bacteria that are dispersed into the air when patients cough, sneeze or talk. In addition, transmission occurs when people who come into contact with an infected person breathe the same air.
weak immune system: Tuberculosis is more common in people with a weakened immune system. The risk of tuberculosis increases in people with diseases that affect the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those receiving immunosuppressive therapy.
Close contact: Those in close contact with an infected person are at higher risk for tuberculosis. Especially if one person in the family has tuberculosis, it increases the risk of other family members being infected.
Age and gender: Tuberculosis usually affects young adults and children. Additionally, it tends to occur more in men than in women. Women have a higher risk during pregnancy or after birth.
Tuberculosis is a common infectious disease and affects millions of people worldwide. There are various factors that can increase the risk of contracting this disease.
Weakened immune system: People with weak immune systems are more vulnerable to tuberculosis infection. Conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, and organ transplantation can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of tuberculosis.
Close contact: Since tuberculosis spreads through airborne droplets, close contact with infected people is a risk factor. Especially people who live in the same house or work in the same workplace are at higher risk.
Not enought feeding: Unbalanced and inadequate nutrition weakens a person's immune system and reduces his resistance to tuberculosis infection. Therefore, it is important to eat healthy.
Bad habits such as smoking and alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption weaken the immune system and increase the risk of tuberculosis. Therefore, it is important to avoid or reduce these habits.
Living conditions: Living in crowded and unhygienic places increases the risk of tuberculosis. This situation is especially common in developing countries. It is important to pay attention to cleaning, ventilation and hygiene rules.
Chronic diseases:DiabetesChronic diseases such as kidney disease and lung disease increase the risk of tuberculosis. Therefore, it is important to manage these diseases properly.
Traveling to areas with high tuberculosis rates also increases the risk of contracting the infection. These regions are:
Sub-Saharan Africa
Hindi Stan
Mexico and other Latin American countries
China and many other Asian countries
Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union
Southeast Asian islands
Micronesia
People who are homeless or in prison have a higher risk of developing tuberculosis.
What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually affects the lungs, but can also affect other organs. Transmission of the disease occurs by inhaling bacteria spread into the air through coughing or sneezing. Therefore, it can spread easily in some environments or between populations.
The most common symptom of tuberculosis is prolonged cough and sputum production. When cough lasts longer than 3 weeks, a doctor should be consulted. Other symptoms include fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue and weakness. However, since these symptoms may be associated with other diseases, a doctor's examination is needed to diagnose tuberculosis.
Tuberculosis Diagnosis
Although tuberculosis (TB) can be controlled with early diagnosis and treatment, it is still unnoticed by many people.
Diagnosis of tuberculosis is usually made by methods such as tuberculin skin test or chest radiography. The tuberculin skin test measures the patient's immune response to a special substance injected into the skin. Chest radiography is used to determine the degree of infection in the lungs. It is necessary to consult a specialist for these diagnostic methods.
Tuberculosis Treatment
Tuberculosis treatment is primarily done with medication. Drug treatment usually involves long-term use of antibiotics. The treatment process lasts approximately 6 months, and the patient must use his medications regularly during this period. Regular use of medications is extremely important for the success of the treatment. Missing a dose or irregular use of medications may cause the disease to progress and make the treatment ineffective.
In the treatment of tuberculosis, drugs are administered in combination. This means using more than one medicine together. In this way, disease-causing microorganisms are prevented from developing resistance and the treatment process becomes more effective.
It is also important to follow the patient regularly during the treatment process. Regularly attending appointments given by the doctor, having the necessary check-ups and using medications properly increases the success of the treatment. In addition, the patient must pay attention to his nutrition during the treatment process. A healthy and balanced nutrition plan will strengthen the patient's immune system and support the treatment process.
What are the Tuberculosis Drugs?
Tuberculosis (TB) drugs are drugs used in the treatment of this infectious disease and are effective against the bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A combination of several different medications is usually used to treat the disease. Here are some of the tuberculosis drugs:
Isoniazid: Isoniazid is one of the most commonly used drugs in the treatment of tuberculosis. It prevents the spread of infection by stopping the proliferation of bacteria.
Rifampicin: Rifampicin is another drug frequently used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It stops bacteria from multiplying by blocking DNA synthesis.
Pyrazinamide: Pyrazinamide is another drug used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It is effective in the acidic environment in which bacteria live and helps eliminate the infection quickly.
Ethambutol: Ethambutol prevents the tuberculosis microbe from multiplying by affecting the synthesis of its cell wall.
These medications are often used together and treated over a period of time. Tuberculosis treatment lasts at least six months and medications must be taken regularly and completely. Failure to use medications on time and in appropriate doses reduces the effect of the treatment and causes bacteria to develop resistance to medications. Therefore, it is very important to carefully follow the doctor's instructions during the tuberculosis treatment process.
What are the Side Effects of Tuberculosis Drugs?
The drugs used in the treatment of this disease play a major role in controlling the infection. However, tuberculosis drugs can often cause some side effects. These side effects vary in each individual and in some cases treatment may need to be discontinued. Here's what you need to know about the side effects of tuberculosis drugs:
Stomach problems due to medications: Tuberculosis medications can cause stomach upset. NauseaSymptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain and vomiting may be common. In this case, you can take precautions to alleviate side effects by consulting your doctor.
Drug-related liver damage: Some tuberculosis medications can cause liver damage. Liver function tests should be checked regularly and a doctor should be consulted immediately if symptoms (such as jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss) occur.
Eye problems caused by medications: Tuberculosis medications can cause vision problems in rare cases. It is important to see a doctor immediately if symptoms such as blurred vision, loss of color vision, or eye pain occur.
Skin reactions due to drugs: Some people may develop allergic reactions to tuberculosis medications. If symptoms such as skin redness, itching and rash occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Treatment may be necessary.
Neurological effects due to drugs: As a rare but potentially serious side effect, anti-tuberculosis medications can cause adverse effects on the nervous system. If symptoms such as dizziness, loss of balance, headache and muscle weakness occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Side effects of tuberculosis medications are not the same for everyone and are usually mild. However, if side effects are severe or affect your function, you should contact your doctor. You can get advice from the specialist about making side effects tolerable or alternative treatment options. The treatment should be monitored regularly and measures should be taken to control side effects.
How Long Does Tuberculosis Treatment Take?
Treatment of tuberculosis requires using antibiotic drugs for a certain period of time. This period usually varies between 6 and 9 months. However, in some cases, especially in more aggressive forms, the treatment period may be longer.
Medicines used in the treatment of tuberculosis are used to destroy the bacteria that cause the disease. This form of treatment is very important to prevent the disease from developing any resistance. Taking antibiotic medications regularly is a critical factor for the success of treatment.
During the treatment process, patients usually experience a rapid improvement in their symptoms. However, this does not happen if medications are not taken regularly or if treatment is stopped early. Therefore, even when tuberculosis treatment is completed, it is important for the patient to continue the check-up and follow the doctor's instructions.
How should tuberculosis patients be fed?
A healthy diet is very important for tuberculosis patients. Strengthening the immune system and increasing body resistance play a major role in the treatment of this disease. Here is some important information about how tuberculosis patients should eat:
Balanced diet: It is important for tuberculosis patients to have a balanced diet to meet their daily calorie needs. A menu should be created that contains sufficient amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals.
Protein intake: Protein is an important component for strengthening the immune system and fighting infection. Tuberculosis patients should focus on foods containing high protein such as grilled chicken, fish, dairy products, eggs and legumes.
Vitamin and mineral supplement: Tuberculosis patients, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc, selenium People should consume foods rich in antioxidants and minerals that support the immune system, such as: These foods include citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, walnuts, almonds, and dried fruits.
Consuming plenty of fluids: It is important for tuberculosis patients to drink plenty of water. Drinking at least 2 liters of water daily helps remove toxins from the body and is important for general health.
Strengthening foods: To speed up the healing process, tuberculosis patients should consume garlic, ginger, onion, sage, which are known to strengthen the immune system. rosehipYou can focus on natural strengthening foods such as thyme.
Smoking and alcohol intake: Tuberculosis patients should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. These habits can negatively affect the treatment process and cause additional health problems for the patient.
Regulating the nutrition of tuberculosis patients increases the success of the treatment process and accelerates the recovery process. However, it should not be forgotten that before completing tuberculosis treatment, a doctor should be consulted to apply any medication or nutrition program.
Foods That Are Good for Tuberculosis
Although drug therapy is important in the treatment of tuberculosis, proper nutrition is also an important factor. Consuming the right foods helps fight disease by strengthening the immune system. Here are some foods that are good for tuberculosis:
Foods rich in protein: Fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, lentil Foods with high protein content, such as, support reparative processes in the body. These foods help heal tissues and fight the effects of disease.
Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and antioxidants strengthen the immune system. OrangeConsuming foods such as , tangerine, kiwi, strawberry, broccoli, cabbage and pepper protects the body against disease.
Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, garlic helps fight tuberculosis. You can consume it by using it in meals or salads.
Ginger: Ginger, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, strengthens the immune system. You can consume it as tea or by adding it to meals.
Yoghurt: Known for its probiotic properties, yoghurt protects intestinal health and strengthens the immune system. It may also be useful in tuberculosis.
Nuts and seeds: Nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts and seeds such as flaxseeds and chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and other healthy fats. The immune system can be supported by consuming these foods.
Nutrition can be effective in the fight against tuberculosis only when combined with drug therapy.
What Are the Complications of Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a microbial infection and usually affects the lungs. However, it can also spread to other parts of the body and cause various complications. Complications that may occur as a result of tuberculosis are:
Complications in the lungs: Severe damage to the lungs can occur in people with tuberculosis. In the advanced stage, serious complications caused by tuberculosis may occur. These may include lung abscess (an inflamed cavity), lung bleeding, and pneumothorax (accumulation of air in the lung).
Brain and nervous system complications:Tuberculosis is an infection that also has effects on the brain and nervous system. Tuberculosis infection in the brain can trigger a serious complication such as meningitis or meningoencephalitis. In this case, symptoms such as headache, fever, nausea-vomiting, changes in consciousness, seizures and even paralysis may occur.
Bone and joint complications: Tuberculosis bacteria can also cause damage to bone and joint tissues. In bone tuberculosis, bone tissue weakens and the risk of fracture increases. In joint tuberculosis, symptoms such as swelling, limitation of movement and pain occur in the joint. These complications can lead to permanent disability or joint damage.
Kidney and liver complications: Tuberculosis can also affect the kidneys and liver. In renal tuberculosis, inflammation and damage occur in the kidneys. This may cause deterioration of kidney function and urinary tract infections. In liver tuberculosis, infection, inflammation and scar tissue may occur in the liver.
Other complications: Tuberculosis infection can also have effects on other organs of the body. Complications may occur in areas such as the heart, stomach, intestines and lymph nodes. In this case, symptoms such as damage to the heart valves, ulcers in the stomach or intestinal tuberculosis, and swelling and inflammation of the lymph nodes may occur.
Tuberculosis can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital.
Does Tuberculosis Cure?
Tuberculosis can be controlled and full recovery can be achieved with an appropriate treatment plan. Standard tuberculosis treatment involves long-term drug therapy. This treatment period usually varies between six months and one year, and the patient must use the medications regularly throughout the treatment. Regular follow-up of drug treatment, along with a healthy immune system, helps to cure tuberculosis completely.
In order for tuberculosis to be eliminated completely, importance should be given to awareness and education activities in the society. These studies should be carried out to prevent the spread of the disease and to raise public awareness about tuberculosis.
Fighting tuberculosis is both an individual and a social responsibility. Therefore, in order to eliminate tuberculosis completely, cooperation and awareness-raising activities should be carried out among health authorities, community leaders and individuals around the world. Fighting tuberculosis is a fundamental step for a healthy world.
How to Prevent Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a disease that can be prevented. These precautions are simple steps that anyone can follow. Here are some recommendations on how to prevent tuberculosis:
Vaccination: BCG vaccine, a widely used vaccine against tuberculosis, is effective in reducing the risk of infection. This vaccine is routinely given in most countries during infancy. Participating in these vaccination programs is important to prevent the risk of infection.
Hygiene: Washing your hands regularly and complying with personal hygiene rules reduces the risk of infection. Since tuberculosis is spread through breathing, such as coughing and sneezing, it is important to prevent the spread of infection through such behavior.
Avoid risk factors: Tuberculosis occurs more frequently in people with weak immune systems. Avoiding risk factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, and chronic diseases reduces the risk of infection.
Reduce contact with infected people: Limiting contact with people with tuberculosis and using a mask reduces the risk of infection.
Regular scanning: Regular screening tests for people at risk help diagnose tuberculosis early and start treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment prevents the infection from spreading further and the emergence of serious health problems.
As a result;
In this article, we discussed how important a public health problem tuberculosis is and the importance of raising awareness about it. Tuberculosis is a treatable disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are vitally important. Therefore, we want everyone to share this article and raise awareness about tuberculosis. By acting together, we can control tuberculosis and prevent the spread of this disease. Remember, it is all our responsibility to protect our health.
