Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but can also involve other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing bacteria into the air. While many people may be exposed to TB, not everyone becomes ill. Some may develop latent TB infection, where the bacteria remain inactive in the body without causing symptoms.
At Dr. Singal's Comprehensive Care Clinic, Dr. Namrata Singal, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist, provides comprehensive care for patients with tuberculosis. We focus on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and ongoing support to help patients recover and manage their condition.
Symptoms of active TB may include a persistent cough (lasting more than three weeks), chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and loss of appetite. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of tests, including a tuberculin skin test (TST) or blood tests (IGRA) to detect TB infection, chest X-rays to identify lung damage, and sputum tests to confirm the presence of TB bacteria.
TB is treatable with a regimen of antibiotics taken over six to nine months. It's crucial to complete the entire course of treatment to ensure the bacteria are fully eradicated and to prevent drug-resistant TB. Dr. Singal will tailor the treatment plan based on the patient's specific needs.
Drug-resistant tuberculosis occurs when the TB bacteria become resistant to the standard medications used to treat the infection. This can result from improper treatment or incomplete courses of medication. Managing drug-resistant TB requires specialized treatment protocols and may involve longer treatment durations with more complex regimens.