Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious and potentially fatal infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It most commonly affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits, and it can be transmitted to another person through direct contact with saliva or mucus from their nose or mouth. People infected with TB may not show any symptoms at first, but the disease can become active at any time. The most common symptoms of active TB are a bad cough that lasts for more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, lack of appetite, chills, and fever. Other symptoms may include night sweats, joint pain, and coughing up mucus or phlegm. Treatment for TB usually involves taking a combination of antibiotics for several months. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and eating a healthy diet can help to prevent the spread of the disease. Vaccines are also available to help protect people from getting infected with TB.