Discussion on global public health is just incomplete without the mention of Tuberculosis. This dreaded disease has proved to be far too detrimental to the well-being of individuals, especially in developing countries like India.
Treatment for Tuberculosis is a long-term process and sometimes too expensive as well. Life for Tuberculosis patients comes to standstill as they are restricted to their beds almost the entire time. It is up to us to spread awareness about Tuberculosis and teach the importance of getting screened early.
What Is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. The bacteria (mycobacterium tuberculosis) that cause tuberculosis are spread from person to person through tiny droplets scattered in the air by coughing and sneezing.
How Does It Spread?
Pulmonary TB is the only form of disease that is infectious. When a person with pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes or spits, he releases the bacteria into the air and spreads the disease.
Who Is At Risk?
Anyone can be affected by TB, however certain factors like poor nutrition, unhygienic living conditions and compromised immune system increase the risk.
Here are a few symptoms one should watch out for:
- Rapid loss of weight: Losing weight is of big concern as it may camouflage with the symptoms of HIV. Tumors accompany weight loss caused due to TB and one should get screened for detection.
- Extreme fatigue: Losing the inclination for doing anything and find working almost impossible.
- Fever, chills, and night sweats
- Uncontrolled nausea
Lifestyle Changes To Manage TB
Take your medicines on time
If you have a habit of skipping medicines, then you should completely change this habit as soon as possible. Taking the drug on time can help maintain the concentration of the drug in the blood at a certain level. It is necessary to kill pathogens. Maintain a timetable of tuberculosis medicines and follow them regularly. If you forget to take your medicine that day, contact your doctor for help.
Think positive and find ways to keep your attitude positive
Don't blame yourself or your fate when you have an illness. Be active and choose to do your best for a full recovery.
Follow your hobbies
Tuberculosis is a contagious disease. There are limits to meeting other people in the early stages of TB treatment. So, the best way is to keep yourself engaged. Enjoy your time following your hobbies, like painting or writing. Prevent negatives from entering your life.
Healthy diet
A healthy diet is essential to provide the body with sufficient energy. Include fresh fruits, vegetables, and juices in your diet. Eat oatmeal, wheat, and ragout along with legumes and dairy products. Increase your intake of foods rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, such as amla, orange, carrot, and nuts.
Think: Am I at risk for TB infection?
Factors that can increase your risk of tuberculosis (TB) include frequent visits to areas where TB is common, living in crowded environments like shelters or prisons, close contact with someone who has active TB, a weakened immune system due to medications or health issues, and working in places like hospitals or shelters."
Test: What TB test is needed?
The CDC recommends testing for tuberculosis (TB), which comes in two types. The TB blood test measures your immune system's response to TB germs, and it may be suggested by your healthcare provider if you've had a TB vaccine. The TB skin test involves a small needle placing testing material under your skin, and you should return to your provider in 2-3 days to check for a reaction.
Treat: What are the treatment options?
If you've been diagnosed with inactive TB, undergoing treatment is crucial to prevent the progression to active TB disease. Luckily, there are numerous convenient and concise treatment options at your disposal.
So, it is important to keep yourself and your family prepared and equipped to fight the disease in order to lead a healthier and happier life.
