Tuberculosis Treatment

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis, also known as TB, is a severe disease that primarily impacts the lungs. The bacteria responsible for causing tuberculosis can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or even singing, as tiny droplets containing the germs are released into the air. When another individual inhales these droplets, the germs can enter their lungs.

Tuberculosis is more likely to spread in places where people gather in large numbers or live in cramped conditions. Individuals with HIV/AIDS or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of contracting tuberculosis compared to those with healthy immune systems. Treatment for tuberculosis involves the use of antibiotics, although some strains of the bacteria have developed resistance to these treatments.

Factors That Can Affect The Cost of Tuberculosis Treatment in India

Medication costs
Patient Condition
Duration of treatment
Geographical location
Hospitalization expenses
Government policies and subsidies
Hospital reputation and infrastructure
The expertise and experience of medical professionals
The type and frequency of diagnostic procedures
The choice of treatment modality

What Causes Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium. Individuals with active TB in the lungs or voice box can transmit the disease by releasing small droplets containing the bacteria into the air. Transmission can occur during activities such as speaking, singing, laughing, coughing, or sneezing. Inhaling these droplets can lead to infection.

The likelihood of disease transmission increases when individuals spend extended periods together in enclosed indoor spaces. Therefore, TB spreads more readily in settings where people reside or work closely for prolonged durations. Additionally, crowded gatherings facilitate the spread of the disease.

What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?

Individuals who have inactive tuberculosis do not display any symptoms. Nevertheless, they might test positive for a skin reaction or blood test. On the other hand, those with active tuberculosis may experience a range of symptoms such as:

Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks
Chest pain
Coughing up blood or mucus
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Chills
Fever
Light sweats

How is Tuberculosis Diagnosed?

There are two types of screening tests for TB:

Mantoux tuberculin skin test (TST): PPD injected under forearm skin; reaction checked after 2–3 days.
Interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA): Blood sample sent to lab.

Additional tests to determine infection activity include:

Lab tests on sputum and lung fluid
Chest X-ray
CT scans

How is Tuberculosis Treated?

Tuberculosis infection and disease can be effectively treated with the following medications:

Isoniazid (Hyzyd®)
Rifampin (Rifadin®)
Ethambutol (Myambutol®)
Pyrazinamide (Zinamide®)
Rifapentine (Priftin®)

It is crucial to complete the full course of medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider, as failure to do so may result in incomplete eradication of the bacteria. The duration of treatment may extend up to nine months. In cases of drug-resistant TB, multiple medications may be necessary for effective treatment, and it is imperative to adhere to the entire prescription.

Prevention of Transmission

Isolation may be necessary for patients with active TB, especially during the initial phases of treatment
Contact tracing and screening of exposed individuals
Adherence to drug regimen
Monitoring and managing side effects
Supportive care including nutrition and general health

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which Course of Treatment Is Best for TB?
A: The standard tuberculosis (TB) therapy is to take antibiotics for at least 6 months. You might also need to take steroid medication for a few weeks if TB has affected your brain, spinal cord, or the region surrounding your heart.

Q: Is Tuberculosis Completely Curable?
A: Tuberculosis (TB) is completely curable if treated with an approved four-drug combination for at least six months.

Q: Do TB-affected Lungs Fully Recover?
A: More chest infections and a poor quality of life can persist even after treatment. Forty percent of patients require additional hospitalization for the treatment of pulmonary diseases. After recovering, more than 40% of TB patients experience lung impairment. Patients get intermittent dyspnea as a result.