TB or tuberculosis is a dangerous disease. TB is a chronic respiratory disease that attacks the lungs, but can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine and brain if not treated immediately. This disease is caused by a bacterial infection and usually begins with a persistent cough.
If you currently have a strong immune system, it is less likely to contract TB disease. Conversely, people with weak immune systems will be more easily infected. Even though TB is dangerous, prompt treatment from a doctor and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help heal TB more quickly.
Accelerate TB Healing
- Consume nutritious food
One way to treat TB is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. By keeping your body in good condition, you will help your body fight infection. Try to eat foods that are protein, fiber, vitamins, and contain other good nutrients.
- Let sunlight into the room
TB bacteria can survive in open air for one to two hours, depending on whether or not sunlight enters the room, humidity and ventilation. If the condition of the room you are in is damp, cold and dark, the mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria can last for days, even months.
Reduce the Risk of TB Transmission
The bacteria that cause TB can spread to other people when a TB sufferer accidentally expels sputum or saliva containing the bacteria into the air, for example when he talks, sneezes and coughs. So, if you have been diagnosed by a doctor as having TB and are worried that you could pass it on to those closest to you, there are several steps you can take to prevent transmission, such as the following steps:
- Use a mask
When interacting with other people, use a medical mask that covers the mouth and nose area to reduce the risk of spreading the mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. In addition, pay attention to how to dispose of masks that have been used. Do not leave the mask that has been used lying around because it is at risk of being touched by other people. Instead, put the mask that has been used in a plastic bag and throw it in the trash.
- Limit contact at the start of treatment
Apart from taking medication, you should reduce direct contact with other people, for about two weeks. This direct contact needs to be limited because during this period, the risk of transmission is very high.
- Diligent Hand Washing
TB transmission is not only through breathing. The bacteria that cause TB can stick to the hands or other objects that are often in contact with the hands. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to wash your hands frequently, especially if you need to make contact with other people.
- Cover mouth area when coughing and sneezing
When coughing and sneezing, bacteria in saliva or phlegm can spread into the air. It's best to cover your mouth area with a tissue when you sneeze and cough, then don't forget to immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
- Do not throw phlegm carelessly
Just like coughing or sneezing in public places, it is better not to get rid of phlegm in public places. Bacteria originating from phlegm can be scattered in the air and inhaled by people around them. If you want to get rid of phlegm, throw it in the restroom and rinse it with running water until it's clean.
So, those are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of TB transmission. Love your body and your family by maintaining your health and diligently doing medical check-ups with your doctor. #LiveExcellently