Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the world’s oldest and deadliest infectious diseases, yet it remains a major public health challenge, especially in developing countries like India. Caused by bacteria that primarily attack the lungs, TB can also damage other parts of the body and lead to life-threatening complications if not treated on time.
This blog will walk you through the key facts about TB—tuberculosis causes, types, symptoms, and treatment—and show you how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Causes of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis stems from an infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that spreads from person to person through airborne droplets. If someone with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, or even speaks, the bacteria can be inhaled by people nearby, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
However, exposure doesn’t always lead to illness. Many people carry the bacteria in an inactive form known as latent TB, which doesn’t cause symptoms or make them contagious.
Types of Tuberculosis
TB can affect different parts of the body, and the symptoms and severity depend on the type of TB a person develops. The major types include:
- Pulmonary TB: This is the most common form, where the infection affects the lungs. It’s also the most contagious. Patients typically experience coughing, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing.
- Extrapulmonary TB: In this type, the infection moves beyond the lungs and targets organs like the brain (TB meningitis), bones, kidneys, lymph nodes, or spine. While not usually contagious, it can be more complex to diagnose and treat.
- Latent TB: In this silent stage, the bacteria remain in the body without causing symptoms. However, without tuberculosis prevention strategies or follow-ups, latent TB can become active years later.
- Drug-resistant TB: This type develops when TB bacteria become resistant to standard antibiotics, usually due to incomplete or incorrect treatment. It requires specialised care, longer treatment duration, and close monitoring.
Common Symptoms of Tuberculosis
TB can be tricky to identify in its early stages because the symptoms often resemble those of a common cold, flu, or fatigue. However, unlike seasonal infections, TB symptoms are persistent and gradually worsen over time.
In pulmonary TB, the classic signs include:
- A cough lasting more than three weeks
- Chest pain while breathing or coughing
- Coughing up blood or phlegm
- Fever, especially in the evening
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness and fatigue
In extrapulmonary TB, symptoms vary based on the affected organ. For example, TB in the spine can cause back pain, while TB in the lymph nodes may lead to swelling around the neck or armpits. TB meningitis can cause confusion, headaches, and neck stiffness.
Tuberculosis Diagnosis
Timely and accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective TB treatment. Since TB can mimic other respiratory or systemic illnesses, doctors use a combination of tests to confirm the infection and determine its type.
Here are some commonly used methods:
- Sputum Test: Patients are asked to cough up mucus from their lungs, which is then tested under a microscope or in a lab to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): Also known as the Mantoux test, a small amount of TB protein is injected under the skin to check for a reaction.
- Blood Tests: Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) can help detect latent TB, especially in people who have received the tuberculosis vaccine and may show a false positive on the skin test.
- Chest X-Ray or CT Scan: These imaging tests help doctors visualise lung damage or TB spots in other organs.
- Biopsy or FNAC: In cases of extrapulmonary TB, a tissue sample may be taken for lab analysis.
Many patients worry about the tuberculosis test price, but most public health centres offer subsidised or even free testing.
Tuberculosis Treatment
Treating TB requires patience, discipline, and regular medical supervision. TB is completely curable in most cases, though, provided you follow the treatment protocol without skipping doses.
The standard treatment involves a combination of four antibiotics taken daily for 6 to 9 months.
Treatment plans may vary depending on:
- The type of TB (pulmonary, extrapulmonary, or drug-resistant)
- The patient’s age, weight, and immunity level
- Previous history of TB or incomplete treatment
Here, support from the best pulmonologist in Delhi NCR, Faridabad can make a world of difference, ensuring progress is monitored and care is personalised.
Side Effects of TB Medicines
While TB medications are life-saving, they can occasionally trigger side effects that must be managed with medical support. Understanding common tuberculosis medicine side effects helps patients stay informed and alert.
Some side effects include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach
- Loss of appetite
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (a sign of liver stress)
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet (neuropathy)
- Blurred vision or changes in eyesight (especially with ethambutol)
- Joint pain or skin rashes
Prevention and Control of TB
Stopping TB starts with tuberculosis prevention, both at the personal and community levels. Since TB spreads through the air, the risk can be reduced by following a few smart practices:
- Early Detection: Get tested if you’ve been in contact with an infected person or if you notice symptoms.
- Complete Treatment: Patients must complete their full course of medicines to prevent relapse or spread.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Always use a handkerchief or elbow to prevent droplets from spreading.
- Stay in Well-Ventilated Spaces: Good airflow reduces airborne TB bacteria.
- Strengthen Immunity: A balanced diet, quality sleep, and regular exercise can help keep your immune system strong.
The Role of the Tuberculosis Vaccine
Vaccination plays a critical role in tuberculosis prevention, especially for infants and young children. The tuberculosis vaccine, known as the BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) vaccine, has been part of India’s Universal Immunisation Programme for decades. This is why, alongside vaccination, early detection and consistent treatment remain essential in controlling the disease.
It’s important to note that the BCG vaccine does not eliminate the need for regular screenings, especially if you are at high risk. Adults working in healthcare, living with TB patients, or dealing with chronic health issues should consult a chest specialist doctor in Greater Noida, Faridabad and Delhi NCR for ongoing TB prevention strategies.
Why Choose Sarvodaya Hospital for TB Treatment?
We at Sarvodaya Hospital, Faridabad, offer dedicated TB care programmes led by the best pulmonologist in Faridabad, supported by experienced nurses and diagnostic experts.
Sarvodaya offers:
- Advanced TB diagnostics and imaging
- Daily consultation with a chest specialist doctor in Faridabad
- Counselling for families and carers
- Treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle and work routine
- Post-recovery follow-up to monitor relapse risks
Conclusion
Tuberculosis is preventable, treatable, and curable—but only if it is recognised and addressed in time. Awareness is your first weapon.
At Sarvodaya Hospital Faridabad, we believe TB care goes beyond prescriptions. From the moment you walk in, our goal is to support your journey, right from testing and treatment to recovery and future tuberculosis prevention. Our pulmonology team provides expert care that is not only affordable but also compassionate.
If you or someone you know is showing symptoms or is at risk, don’t delay. TB doesn't have to define your life—it can be just a chapter you overcame.
