An effective way to protect against tuberculosis is early diagnosis and the application of appropriate treatment methods. When medication therapy is used regularly, it can halt the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of transmission. Tuberculosis is usually spread through droplets expelled into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. For this reason, close contact with infected persons should be avoided, sharing personal items should be refrained from, and hygiene rules must be observed.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that is transmitted via the respiratory route and mostly affects the lungs. The disease does not only settle in the lungs; it can also spread to other organs of the body such as bones, kidneys, brain, and lymph nodes.
Tuberculosis is more commonly seen in individuals with weakened immune systems and those with nutritional deficiencies. It continues to be an important health issue worldwide, especially in developing countries.
What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?
The symptoms of tuberculosis are mild during the early stages of the disease. If not treated, the symptoms will gradually worsen. Common symptoms of tuberculosis:
-
Dry and productive cough lasting more than two weeks
-
Bloody sputum
-
Chest pain
-
Loss of appetite and rapid weight loss
-
Night sweats
-
Long-lasting low-grade fever
-
Weakness and fatigue
Symptoms can also be seen in other respiratory diseases besides tuberculosis. However, if symptoms such as cough lasting longer than two weeks and night sweats are present, a doctor should definitely be consulted.
How is Tuberculosis Transmitted?
Tuberculosis is spread through airborne droplets. Tuberculosis can be transmitted through inhalation of droplets containing germs released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Individuals in contact with an infected person are also at risk. Tuberculosis can also be transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or contact with infected animals. Although the disease primarily affects the lungs, it can also spread to other body areas. Early diagnosis and treatment are important because if not treated, it can lead to serious complications.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Tuberculosis?
It is possible to protect against tuberculosis. Precautions that can be taken:
-
BCG Vaccine: The BCG vaccine administered during childhood provides protection against severe forms of tuberculosis.
-
Strengthening the Immune System: Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress keep the immune system strong.
-
Avoiding Crowded Environments: Staying away from closed and unventilated areas in risky regions reduces the risk of transmission.
-
Isolation of Patients: Keeping active tuberculosis patients isolated during their treatment prevents transmission.
-
Regular Health Check-ups: Regular health check-ups for individuals in risk groups are important for early diagnosis.
How is the Tuberculosis Test Conducted?
Two different medical tests are used for tuberculosis diagnosis: the skin test and the blood test.
For the skin test (PPD test), a small amount of tuberculosis protein is injected under the skin. Itching in this area is normal, but it is important not to scratch it as this can make reading the test results difficult. A firm lump or swelling at the injection site may indicate the presence of the tuberculosis germ, whereas reddening alone is commonly accepted.
In the blood test diagnosis, a blood sample is taken from the patient to examine how the immune system responds to bacteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tuberculosis cause death?
Tuberculosis is a treatable disease, but it can pose a life-threatening risk and result in death if not properly diagnosed and treated.
What should you do if the tuberculosis test is positive?
A positive result in skin and blood tests for tuberculosis diagnosis indicates that the person has contracted tuberculosis. In this case, the doctor initiates treatment.
How long should tuberculosis treatment continue?
Tuberculosis treatment requires the use of four different drugs, resulting in a longer recovery time compared to other infections. This period usually takes up to 6 months. If the medications are used irregularly or incompletely, the risk of disease recurrence increases, and the potential for transmission to others continues.
Is vaccination sufficient for protection against tuberculosis?
The BCG vaccine provides protection against severe tuberculosis forms, especially during childhood. However, since it does not provide full protection in adults, attention must be given to other precautions as well.