Each year, about 10 million people develop tuberculosis worldwide and an estimated 1.5 million people die from the infection. For some people, the red alert came when the cough lasted for more than three weeks and started coming with blood. For others, it was night sweats, fatigue, and alarming weight loss.
Tuberculosis stories may differ but one thing is common in all stories- everyone says it is better to have prevented tuberculosis infection. This conclusion is probably due to the amount of discomfort tuberculosis comes with.
What is tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a contagion that affects the lungs. It is caused by bacteria and can easily be spread from person to person when droplets from coughing and sneezing are released into the air.
There are three sorts of Tuberculosis
- Active TB: Just like the name suggests, active TB means that the bacteria causing the illness are multiplying quickly and spreading to other parts of the host’s body.
- Military TB: This is a sort of active TB disease. The bacteria get into the bloodstream, spreads and attacks many organs directly. It is rare but it is also a really fatal sort of TB.
- Latent TB: Individuals can be infected with TB and not have symptoms of the disease at all. Their X-ray results appear normal and they feel fine. But latent infection can easily become active disease especially when the patient is exposed to certain risk factors. These factors include illnesses and medications that weaken the immune system.
Tips on Preventing the Spread of Tuberculosis
Persons who are diagnosed of active TB must begin treatment immediately to scale back the possibility of spreading the infection. Treatment might last between 6 and 12 months of medication. It is important to finish the medication and take them a prescribed to avoid getting sick again.
As we observe this year’s World Tuberculosis Day, let’s remember to observe these tips to help prevent the spread of the infection;
- When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth with a tissue
- Seal all used tissues in a bag before throwing them away
- Take all your medication consistent with the Doctor’s advice. Do not stop until your Doctor takes you off them
- Avoid using public means of transportation while you are still infectious
- Do not make visits or entertain visitors. Also avoid public places
- Wash your hands thoroughly right after you cough or sneeze
- Always open your windows or use a fan to assist the circulation of fresh air.
Tuberculosis can lead to complications like liver, kidney and heart problems, spinal pain, meningitis and damage of the joints. It can also be fatal when it is not treated. If you notice you have a cough that has lasted for more than three weeks, consult a doctor on Doctall for advice immediately.