Understanding Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Tuberculosis (TB) has long been a persistent public health challenge, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite ongoing medical advancements, TB remains one of the top 10 causes of death globally, with over 1.6 million lives lost to the disease each year. But how much do we actually know about this infectious disease?

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily affects the lungs, it can also impact other parts of the body, such as the bones, kidneys, and brain. TB can be classified into two types:

• Latent TB: The bacteria lies dormant in the body and doesn’t cause symptoms. However, it can activate later, especially if the immune system weakens.
• Active TB: This is when the infection causes visible symptoms and can be transmitted to others.

TB spreads through the air, making it a highly contagious disease when left unchecked. However, it’s important to note that not all exposures lead to infection.

Causes of Tuberculosis

The root cause of TB is the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. But how does it spread? Here are some common causes:

1. Airborne Transmission

TB spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person:

• Coughs
• Sneezes
• Speaks
• Sings

If you inhale these droplets, there's a chance the bacteria may settle in your lungs.

2. Weak Immune System

A robust immune system can often prevent the active growth of TB bacteria. However, individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing active TB. Key factors include:

• HIV/AIDS
• Poor nutrition
• Cancer or chemotherapy treatment
• Use of immunosuppressive medications

3. Living or Working in High-Risk Environments

Certain environments elevate the risk of TB transmission, such as:

• Areas with high population density (e.g., prisons or shelters)
• Countries with high TB prevalence
• Healthcare facilities where exposure to undiagnosed TB patients may occur

4. Close Contact with Active TB Patients

Frequent proximity to someone with active TB, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces, heightens the risk of infection.

Understanding these causes helps highlight how TB proliferates and where prevention efforts need to be concentrated.

Recognizing TB Symptoms

Early detection of TB is critical to prevent its spread and ensure effective treatment. Symptoms can vary based on whether the infection is latent or active.

Symptoms of Active Pulmonary TB (TB in the Lungs):

• Persistent cough lasting 3 weeks or more
• Coughing up blood or mucus
• Chest pain, particularly when breathing or coughing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever and chills
• Night sweats
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms of Extrapulmonary TB (TB in Other Parts of the Body):

If TB affects areas other than the lungs, symptoms might include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Bone pain or joint stiffness
• Neurological symptoms (e.g., headaches or confusion) if the brain is affected
• Blood in the urine (TB in the kidneys)

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.

How is Tuberculosis Diagnosed?

Accurate and timely diagnosis is the first step in combating TB. Medical professionals typically use a combination of the following methods:

• Blood Tests: Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) detect the immune response to TB bacteria. This method is particularly helpful for identifying latent TB.
• Chest X-Rays: Abnormalities in the lungs visible on X-rays can suggest active TB.
• Sputum Tests: Analysing sputum for the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis confirms an active infection.

Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of further complications or transmission.

Tuberculosis Prevention Strategies

Prevention is always better than cure. While TB remains challenging to eradicate entirely, these strategies can significantly reduce its transmission and impact.

1. BCG Vaccination

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is one of the most effective tools available. Administered mainly to children in countries with high TB prevalence, it protects against severe forms of tuberculosis, such as TB meningitis.

2. Practise Respiratory Hygiene

Encourage individuals with active TB to:

• Cover their mouths with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Wear a mask to reduce droplet spread.
• Ensure good ventilation in shared spaces.

3. Improve Living Conditions

Overcrowded spaces are breeding grounds for airborne diseases. Ensuring better ventilation, reducing overcrowding, and increasing access to healthcare in high-risk areas can make a significant difference.

4. Prompt Identification and Treatment

Screen at-risk populations regularly to catch TB early. Treating latent TB in high-risk individuals can prevent it from progressing to the active stage.

5. Strengthen Your Immune System

Maintain strong immunity through:

• A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep
• Managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, effectively

Conclusion

Tuberculosis may be a serious condition, but knowledge is power. By understanding its causes, recognising the symptoms, and taking proactive prevention measures, we can collectively reduce the toll this disease takes on our global community.