Tuberculosis, or TB, is an infectious disease that remains a global health problem. Although it may sound ancient, TB still plagues our society today. In Indonesia, it is even among the top 10 causes of death. Many of us are unaware that TB is present in our surroundings, such as in our homes, workplaces, public transportation, and perhaps even within our own families.
What exactly is tuberculosis? How can we recognize it, prevent it, and treat it appropriately? This article will discuss TB in depth, from symptoms, transmission, prevention, and treatment. Let's protect ourselves and our environment from the threat of this disease.
What is TB? Let's Get to Know It Better
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis . This bacteria most often attacks the lungs, but can also affect other organs such as the lymph nodes, bones, brain, and kidneys. TB spreads through the air, especially when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks.
It's important to note that TB is not spread through food, drink, touch, or handshakes. However, because it's airborne, anyone can become infected if they're in a closed room with someone with active TB, especially without proper ventilation.
Know the Dangers of TB
TB is dangerous because it can develop silently. Many people are unaware they are infected, and without treatment, TB can cause severe lung damage and even death.
Furthermore, TB can become drug-resistant, especially if the patient doesn't complete the treatment as recommended by the doctor. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is more difficult to treat and requires longer treatment times and more expensive medications.
Who is vulnerable to TB infection?
In fact, anyone can get TB. However, some groups are at higher risk, such as:
- People with weak immune systems (for example, people with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or malnutrition)
- Smoker
- Drug users
- People who live in crowded and damp environments
- Health workers who frequently come into contact with TB patients
- People who live in the same house as someone with active TB
TB Symptoms You Need to Know
TB has typical symptoms, but it can also resemble other respiratory diseases. Common symptoms of pulmonary TB include:
- Cough with phlegm for more than 2 weeks
- Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
- Fever, especially in the afternoon and evening
- Night sweats without activity
- Drastic weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Easily tired and weak
If TB affects other organs (extrapulmonary TB), symptoms can vary depending on the location of the infection. For example, TB of the bones can cause bone or joint pain, while TB of the glands can cause swollen lymph nodes.
How TB is Transmitted from One Person to Another
TB transmission occurs when a person inhales air containing TB germs. This air can come from droplets of sputum from someone with active TB who coughs, sneezes, or talks. Therefore, TB spreads very easily in closed spaces with poor air circulation.
However, not everyone infected with TB germs becomes ill immediately. Many people experience what's known as latent TB. This means the TB germs are present in their bodies but are inactive. People with latent TB are not contagious and have no symptoms, but they can become ill later if their immune system weakens.
Early TB Detection: The Key to Faster Recovery
One of the main keys to controlling TB is early detection. The sooner TB is detected, the greater the chance of a full recovery and preventing transmission to others.
Some early detection steps that can be taken:
- Check with a health center or hospital if you have a cough for more than 2 weeks.
- Perform sputum test (microscopic and/or TCM - Molecular Rapid Test)
- Chest X-ray
- Mantoux test or IGRA (to detect latent TB)
Early detection is highly recommended for family members living with TB sufferers, including children.
TB Prevention Steps
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some ways to prevent TB:
- BCG vaccination
The BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) vaccine is given to newborns to prevent severe forms of TB, such as tuberculosis meningitis or miliary TB. While it doesn't 100% prevent pulmonary TB, this vaccine is still very important.
- Cough Etiquette
Teaching and practicing proper cough etiquette is crucial. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
- Good Ventilation
Ensure your home and workspace are well-ventilated. Sunlight and fresh air help kill airborne TB germs.
- Do not smoke
Smoking weakens the respiratory system and increases the risk of developing TB and worsens the condition of TB sufferers.
- Routine Checkup
People at high risk, such as healthcare workers and close contacts of TB patients, should undergo regular screening.
- Maintaining Body Immunity
Eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help the body fight TB infection.
TB Can Be Cured! Here's the Right Treatment
The good news is that TB can be completely cured as long as treatment is completed regularly. The TB treatment program in Indonesia uses the DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course) strategy, which means patients take medication under the supervision of healthcare workers.
Treatment Duration
- For drug-sensitive TB: 6 months
- For drug-resistant TB: 9-24 months (depending on the type of resistance)
TB medication
TB medication is provided free of charge at government health facilities and consists of a combination of several drugs. Patients are required to take the medication daily according to the prescribed schedule.
If the patient stops or misses the medication, a relapse or even drug resistance may occur.
Family and Environmental Support
TB patients need moral support and a non-discriminatory environment. Stigma against TB sufferers remains a problem in society and can hinder treatment.
Children Can Get TB Too, Here's What Parents Need to Know
TB in children often lacks the typical symptoms seen in adults. Children may experience a persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and swollen glands. Therefore, it is important for parents to monitor their child's growth and development and consult a doctor immediately if they suspect TB.
Children who live in the same house as adults with active TB are also at high risk of infection and need to be given preventive treatment.
Let's Fight TB Together!
Communities have a significant role to play in breaking the chain of TB transmission. Here are concrete steps you can take:
- Educate yourself and your family about TB
- Encourage people around you to get checked if they have symptoms.
- Support TB patients to recover, not shun them
- Do not spread stigma and discrimination
- Participate in the integrated health post program or TB detection activities in the environment
Tuberculosis is an ancient disease that remains a real threat. Don't underestimate a persistent cough. Early detection, appropriate treatment, and community support are key to defeating TB.
TB is all around us without our awareness. But with the right information, vigilance, and collective care, we can prevent, treat, and even eliminate TB from our environment. Come on, be part of the TB-free movement!
Article written by Dr. Maria Dewi Caetline, Sp.P (Pulmonary and Respiratory Specialist at EMC Cikarang & Cibitung Hospital).