Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that most commonly affects the lungs but can also involve other parts of the body. It is caused by a bacterial infection and usually spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Common features include a long-standing cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. TB is treatable and curable with proper diagnosis, a complete course of treatment, and regular follow-up, so early evaluation is important.
Dr. Rahul Nayak, Consultant Pulmonologist and Critical Care Specialist, provides comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and follow-up care for patients with tuberculosis and other respiratory conditions.
Common Symptoms
- Cough lasting two weeks or more, sometimes with mucus or blood
- Persistent low-grade fever, often in the evening
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness and weakness
- Chest pain or breathlessness in some cases
How TB Spreads & Risk Factors
- Spread through the air from an infected person’s cough or sneeze
- Close or prolonged contact with someone who has active TB
- Weakened immunity
- Poor nutrition
- Crowded or poorly ventilated living conditions
- Certain long-term health conditions
Diagnosis
Dr. Rahul Nayak evaluates your symptoms, history, and possible exposure to identify TB and its extent. Investigations may include:
- Sputum tests to detect the infection
- Chest imaging when clinically indicated
- Blood tests and additional TB-specific tests
- Further evaluation to check if other organs are involved
Treatment & Care
TB treatment involves a complete, supervised course of medicines taken regularly for the full prescribed duration. Care focuses on curing the infection, preventing complications, and stopping its spread. It may include:
- A full, uninterrupted course of anti-TB treatment as prescribed
- Regular monitoring of response and side effects
- Nutritional and general health support
- Guidance to prevent spread to family and close contacts
- Follow-up until treatment is successfully completed
It is important to complete the entire course of treatment even after symptoms improve, and never to stop medicines without medical advice.
When to See a Pulmonologist
Consult a pulmonologist if you have a cough lasting two weeks or more, blood in the sputum, persistent fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss. Early diagnosis and complete treatment give the best chance of full recovery.
Consult Dr. Rahul Nayak for expert Tuberculosis (TB) Care in Siliguri and take the right step toward complete recovery and better respiratory health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is tuberculosis curable?
Yes. TB is curable with proper diagnosis and a complete, regular course of treatment. Completing the full treatment is essential for a full recovery.
2. How does TB spread?
TB usually spreads through the air when a person with active lung TB coughs or sneezes. Close or prolonged contact increases the risk.
3. What happens if TB treatment is stopped early?
Stopping treatment early can cause the infection to return and may lead to drug-resistant TB, which is harder to treat. The full course should always be completed under medical guidance.
4. When should I get tested for TB?
You should be evaluated if you have a cough lasting two weeks or more, blood in the sputum, persistent fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.