WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TUBERCULOSIS (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious airborne bacterial infection that affects the lungs. The organism that causes the infection, mycobacterium tuberculosis, is spread from person to person via droplets that are released in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Although it is a contagious infection, not all people with tuberculosis display the symptoms. This is referred to as latent tuberculosis, or inactive TB. However, there is a risk of latent TB becoming active, therefore it is necessary to seek treatment from a specialist pulmonologist in Dubai if you have TB.

In this article, we will discuss the TB symptoms and treatment, and causes.

  1. Symptoms of Tuberculosis
  2. Risk Factors for Tuberculosis
  3. Causes of Tuberculosis
  4. Treatment for Tuberculosis

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

In the case of latent TB, it can be difficult to identify symptoms. However, latent TB can turn into an active case within weeks, months, or even years after infection with the bacteria. Here are some the major symptoms of tuberculosis:

  • Prolonged coughing for 3 or more weeks
  • Coughing up blood
  • Chest pain, caused during breathing or coughing
  • Fever
  • 疲劳
  • Unintentional weight gain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Chills and shivers
  • Night sweat
  • Body or bone pain

Patients may experience different symptoms, depending on how severe the infection is, and which area of the body it has affected. For example, coughing up blood is a sign that the infection is in the lungs, while blood in urine may be a symptom of TB in the kidneys.

If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms, including a prolonged cough lasting more than 3 weeks, then book an appointment and seek treatment from a specialist pulmonologist in Dubai immediately.

Risk Factors for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a contagious infection, therefore it is possible for anyone to contract the infection if they have been in contact with an infected individual. However, certain risk factors increase the chance of being infected. Such individuals are advised to visit a specialist pulmonologist for TB screening.

Major risk factors include:

  • Are in contact with infected individuals such as friends, family, co-workers, etc..
  • Children who are exposed to adults at risk of TB
  • Patients of HIV/AIDS
  • Use IV drugs
  • Come from a country where TB is more prevalent, e.g. countries in Latin America, Africa and Asia
  • Live or work in areas where TB is common, such as prisons or nursing homes
  • Work in the health care sector and come in contact with high-risk TB patients
  • Patients of chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, or diseases such as cancer

If any of these risk factors apply to you, or if you have recently been in contact with someone diagnosed or displaying symptoms of tuberculosis, then be sure to visit a doctor as soon as possible.

Causes of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection, caused by the organism mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is passed from droplets that are released in the air when an infected patient coughs, sneezes, or laughs.

It is a contagious infection, yet it is not easily transferred from person to person. That is to say, an individual is unlikely to contract TB from a stranger. It is more common to catch from a close relative or friend. In addition, in most cases, an individual who takes medication consistently for 2 weeks is no longer considered contagious.

Treatment for Tuberculosis

If you have been diagnosed with latent or active TB, your specialist pulmonologist will prescribe a treatment plan for you. This often includes medication which is taken for at least 2 weeks, but the treatment period can be much longer. The treatment is to prevent the bacteria from becoming resistant, which can further complications.

For the best pulmonologist in Dubai, visit 乌韦·克利马教授博士 at the 德国心脏中心. With years of extensive experience and success in treating a wide array of pulmonary diseases and infections, including TB, Professor Dr. Uwe Klima can provide you the best treatment. Contact the 德国心脏中心 to 预订约会 now.

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