According to Moidunova, tuberculosis exists in two forms, commonly referred to as open and closed. The open form is characterized by the patient releasing tuberculosis bacteria into the environment when coughing, sneezing, or even while eating. The closed form is observed when the patient does not release the bacteria, but the disease still progresses within the body.
Primarily, the tuberculosis bacillus affects the lungs in 90% of cases; however, it can also affect other organs. The infection is transmitted through the air, the expert noted.
The risk of contracting tuberculosis from an infected person increases in the following cases:
- with prolonged and close contact with the patient (for three months or more);
- if the patient releases a large number of bacteria;
- if the healthy person has a weakened immune system, which can be caused by comorbidities or risk factors such as alcohol and drug abuse.
Moidunova added that brief contact with an infected person while in good health and with a strong immune system does not lead to infection.
The tuberculosis bacillus is resistant to some medications and external factors but develops slowly, making diagnosis difficult. Clinical manifestations may not appear immediately; therefore, anyone experiencing a prolonged cough, severe weakness, increased sweating, and weight loss should consult a doctor for analysis and X-ray examination.
"Our patients become non-dangerous to others shortly after starting treatment. The earlier the disease is detected, the easier the treatment process will be, and the better the prognosis," emphasized Moidunova.
