What is pulmonary tuberculosis (TB)?
TB is an infectious disease, caused by germs called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, often dispersed through air and triggers contagious lung disorder, and such a disease is either active or inactive. Active TB indicates a new infection or a reactivation of an old disease; so patients’ condition is unstable and is in need of remedy; and doctors have to evaluate their sputum to determine whether it is contagious. The inactive (latent) TB indicates that patients have been infected for a period of time; since their condition is stable, medication treatment is unnecessary at the moment yet regular follow-ups are highly recommended.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Pulmonary tuberculosis symptoms are quite diverse: from mild cold symptoms to severe respiratory failure, either systemic or local.
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Systemic symptoms are non-specific like malaise, weight loss, loss of appetite, and fever.
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Local symptoms include coughing, sputum lasting longer than 2-3 weeks, coughing blood during severe conditions, or breathing difficulties.
Patients’ conditions vary respectively; consult chest physicians or infectious disease specialists when some of the symptoms emerge.
Things to be aware of with home care
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TB is spread through aerosol droplets and TB bacteria are likely to sprout under dark, humid, and poor ventilating environment; therefore, it is vital for the living environment to stay circulated with sufficient sunlight and little dust.
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Comply with the doctor’s instruction: taking medicine with patience and regularity because the treatment course lasts at least 6 months. Do not stop medication at will for it could generate worse and deteriorating conditions like resistance to drug.
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Live a regular and fully rested life with thoroughly balanced nutrition to stay strong and healthy.
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Maintain regular follow-ups at the clinic.
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