Tuberculosis (TB) is a lung infection that can be effectively treated with antibiotics and has a vaccine for prevention.

Recognizing TB Symptoms

Tuberculosis (TB) symptoms develop gradually and may include:

Key symptoms:

• a lingering cough lasting beyond 3 weeks
• feeling tired and weak
• fever or night sweats
• loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
• general feeling of being unwell

Children may show signs like difficulty gaining weight or growing.

Additional symptoms may arise if TB spreads to other body parts like glands, bones, or brain, such as:

• swollen glands and body aches
• joint or ankle swelling
• abdominal pain and constipation
• dark urine or rash on body parts

Latent TB may exist without symptoms, while active TB has noticeable symptoms.

Identifying TB Symptoms

• coughing for over 3 weeks
• unexplained fatigue
• night sweats or persistent high temperature
• loss of appetite and weight
• close contact with someone with TB symptoms

Recognizing Advanced TB Symptoms

• coughing up blood or bloody mucus
• unexplained weight loss
• extreme fatigue
• fever that lasts for weeks
• night sweats
• persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks

When TB Affects the Brain

• severe headache and stiff neck
• light sensitivity and seizures
• behavioral changes and weakness in body parts
• confusion and difficulty concentrating
• numbness or tingling in extremities

If you experience any of these symptoms and suspect TB has spread to your brain, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital. Instead, call for an ambulance and inform the medical professionals about your condition. Make sure to bring all your medications with you to the hospital.

Symptoms and Testing

To diagnose TB, tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, and biopsies may be necessary.

• Sanction tests may include a Mantoux test or blood tests.
• Other tests that may be used to diagnose TB include sputum tests and chest CT scans.

A Mantoux test involves injecting liquid under the skin to check for TB.

TB Treatment Overview

The primary treatment for TB involves a 6-month course of antibiotics, potentially longer for latent TB or if the brain is affected.

How to Take Antibiotics Correctly

Full adherence to antibiotic treatment is vital to prevent TB recurrence.

It is important to take the antibiotics exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication early, even if you start feeling better.

Make sure to take the antibiotics at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body.

If you experience any side effects from the medication, such as nausea or dizziness, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Keep track of your progress and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your response to treatment.

Remember, TB treatment can be lengthy, but full adherence to the antibiotic regimen is essential for successful recovery.

Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission

TB is a bacterial infection spread through close contact with symptomatic individuals. Inhalation of cough droplets is a common transmission method.

Risk Factors for TB

Everyone can contract TB, but some individuals, like those in close contact with TB cases or residing in high-risk areas, are more susceptible.

• Exposed to active TB cases
• Born or living in TB endemic regions
• Weak immune system
• Younger than 5 years old
• Live in poor conditions or engage in unhealthy habits

The Importance of Vaccination

For those at higher TB risk, the BCG vaccine is recommended.

TB is curable with free treatment accessible in the UK. Prompt treatment enhances recovery and reduces transmission risk. Support from loved ones can aid in treatment compliance.

Completing TB Treatment

A minimum of six months of treatment is mandatory to eliminate all bacteria. Thereafter, specific TB forms may no longer be infectious after a few weeks.

Common TB Treatment Medications

Multiple antibiotics like Isoniazid, Rifampicin, and others are typically used. For burdened TB areas or specific cases, combined drugs may be employed.

Managing TB Side Effects

Report any medication side effects to healthcare providers, especially severe ones like jaundice.

• Nausea, skin rashes, or flu-like symptoms are common but transient.

Preventing TB Recurrence

Finishing treatment is critical to prevent TB relapse or spreading. Completing the full therapy course is essential for recovery.

Support for Medication Adherence

If struggling with daily medication intake, inquire about Directly Observed Therapy for guidance.

Dealing with Drug-Resistant TB

Medication-resistant TB poses challenges and requires extended treatment. Hospitalization and supervised therapy may be necessary.

Find out more in our patient information leaflets:

Patient’s TB Journey

Louise’s relentless chest infection prompted a doctor visit despite previous treatment and smoking cessation.

Provided by TB Alert, the UK’s national tuberculosis charity.

Not all TB infections lead to illness. Inactive and active TB forms exist, both manageable conditions.

Effective Treatment Plans for TB

Adherence to tailored TB treatment plans is vital for successful outcomes. Collaborate with healthcare providers to determine the optimal regimen.

Treatment Duration for Inactive and Active TB

Therapy length for inactive TB and active TB can vary, from months to up to a year, depending on individual circumstances.

Managing Drug-Resistant TB

Specific treatment strategies are required for drug-resistant TB, necessitating expert medical oversight.

Ensuring Medication Safety

Be transparent with healthcare providers about all medications taken, as TB drugs can interact with other medications or impact pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Special Treatment Considerations

Tailored treatments are available for children, individuals with HIV, and pregnant women, with close monitoring and specialized drug choices.

Support Services and Resources

There are support services available to help patients with TB adhere to their treatment plans, such as medication reminders, counseling, and transportation assistance.

Nutritional Support for TB Patients

Proper nutrition is essential for TB patients to support their immune system and help with medication absorption. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can aid in recovery.

Staying Committed to Treatment

Treatment Persistence and Monitoring

Adhering to the prescribed TB treatment schedule is crucial. Any concerns or side effects should be promptly communicated to healthcare providers.

• Report any side effects promptly.

If you require support with your TB medication, consult with your healthcare provider for assistance and resources.

Discover connections with fellow survivors of tuberculosis by joining community groups such as “We are TB” or “Somos TB” for Spanish speakers. Explore diverse TB experiences through CDC’s Tuberculosis Personal Stories database. It is estimated that around one-third of the global population has been exposed to tuberculosis, with 9.4 million new cases reported in 2009. The rise of drug-resistant TB strains presents a growing obstacle in treatment.
Treatment for TB typically lasts between six months to two years and can result in severe side effects like gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea, and headaches. Prematurely discontinuing treatment can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains, complicating the management of the disease. The connection between HIV and TB is significant, requiring comprehensive treatment strategies for both conditions.
There is a stigma surrounding tuberculosis, leading many patients to experience alienation within their communities. In some regions, individuals with active TB are detained to prevent the spread of the disease. The ethical implications of confinement and isolation raise important questions about human rights and societal obligations. Enhanced medical interventions and social support programs are essential in addressing the physical, emotional, and social impact of TB.
To read firsthand accounts from individuals living with TB, visit the Medecins Sans Frontieres blog “TB&Me.” By bringing attention to the lack of awareness surrounding TB compared to HIV, the treatment challenges, and the emotional burden of the illness, we can increase understanding and support for those affected by tuberculosis.