Tuberculosis, or TB, is a serious infection that can attack and damage various parts of the body, including the lungs, bones, lymph nodes, heart, and nervous system.
Tuberculosis, or TB, is a serious infection caused by a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacteria can attack and damage various parts of the body, including the lungs, bones, lymph nodes, heart, and nervous system.
Often, people will first have an inactive form of TB, also known as a latent infection. However, if the immune system is weakened by conditions such as HIV, cancer, or chemotherapy, the TB may become active.
Symptoms of TB can vary depending on which organs are affected but may include a persistent cough lasting at least three weeks, coughing up blood or phlegm, chest pain, fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and weakness.
To diagnose TB, a healthcare provider may ask about a person's contact with potentially infected individuals or places, any history of TB or previous skin test results, risk factors such as HIV, travel, and job exposure. Your doctor may also perform a tuberculin skin test, where a small amount of fluid containing TB protein is injected under the skin on the arm, and the size of the resulting swelling is measured 48 to 72 hours later. In addition, a blood test called QuantiFERON may be done to screen for TB exposure. If these tests are positive, the provider may also order chest x-rays and tests on samples of sputum, blood, or urine to look for the presence of mycobacteria, as well as an HIV test.
TB can be treated successfully with a regimen of antibiotics taken daily for six months or longer. It's important to complete the treatment even if symptoms disappear, as stopping the medication too soon can allow bacteria to remain in the body and cause a return of TB that can spread to other parts of the body and potentially infect others. Family members and close contacts will also need to undergo TB screening
The symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) can vary depending on which organs are affected, but may include:
It's important to note that many people with early-stage TB may not have any symptoms and may feel completely normal. If you have been exposed to TB or have risk factors for the disease, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
To diagnose tuberculosis (TB), your INTEGRIS Health doctor will typically consider a person's medical history, including any contact with potentially infected individuals or places, history of TB or previous skin test results, risk factors such as HIV, travel, and job exposure. They may also perform a physical examination and look for signs and symptoms of TB.
To confirm the diagnosis, the provider may perform one or more of the following tests:
If the diagnosis of TB is confirmed, the healthcare provider will recommend a treatment plan, which may include a regimen of antibiotics taken daily for six months or longer. It's important to follow the treatment plan as directed and complete the full course of medication to ensure that the TB is completely eliminated and to prevent it from returning or spreading to others.
The course of treatment for tuberculosis (TB) typically involves taking a combination of antibiotics daily for six months or longer. The specific antibiotics and length of treatment will depend on the severity of the TB, the person's overall health, and any other underlying health conditions.
It's important to follow the treatment plan as directed by a healthcare provider and to take all medications as prescribed. It's also important to finish the full course of treatment, even if symptoms disappear, as stopping the medication too soon can allow bacteria to remain in the body and cause a return of TB that can spread to other parts of the body and potentially infect others.
During treatment, the healthcare provider will monitor the person's progress and check for any side effects from the medications. The provider may also recommend additional tests to ensure that the TB is being effectively treated.
In addition to taking medications, it's important for people with TB to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and stay hydrated. It's also important to avoid close contact with others to prevent the spread of TB. Family members and close contacts of someone with TB will also need to be screened and treated if necessary to prevent the spread of the disease.
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