The infection is primarily transmitted through the air, during coughing or talking. "Tuberculosis infection has its peculiarities — the bacillus is resistant to external conditions and develops very slowly. Therefore, it is not always possible to diagnose it immediately. People may not feel unwell for a long time while continuing to engage in their usual activities," the doctor explained.
Main Symptoms of Tuberculosis
If you have a cough lasting more than two weeks, this is an important signal. Additionally, pulmonary tuberculosis may manifest with the following symptoms:
- general weakness;
- elevated temperature;
- night sweats;
- increased fatigue;
- decreased appetite;
- weight loss.
The temperature usually rises in the evening, reaching 37-37.5 degrees Celsius. In later stages, shortness of breath, chest pain, and even hemoptysis may occur.
Nestan Moydunova also pointed out the key risk factors for tuberculosis infection.
"First, prolonged close contact with an infected person is necessary — about three months. Second, the patient must excrete a significant amount of mycobacteria. And finally, the contact person must be in a state of weakened immunity or have comorbidities such as diabetes or chronic lung diseases, or be at risk due to alcoholism or drug addiction. If a person is healthy and leads a normal lifestyle, brief and non-close contacts with an infected person do not lead to infection," the specialist added.
When a patient begins treatment, they quickly become non-dangerous to others.
"Tuberculosis is not a death sentence. If detected at an early stage, treatment will be effective and without consequences. The main problem lies in timely diagnosis, so that the treatment process goes as smoothly and quickly as possible. Our goal is to raise public awareness. If someone feels unwell, it is necessary to see a doctor," Nestan Moydunova concluded.
It was previously reported that every third person on the planet is a carrier of the tuberculosis bacillus; however, the strong immunity of most people prevents the infection from developing. Only 5-10% of those infected may develop tuberculosis during their lifetime.
