Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious and potentially life-threatening infectious disease that most often affects the lungs. It is caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Although TB can affect any part of the body, it typically starts in the lungs and spreads through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, or spine.
TB is usually spread from person to person through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing. People with active TB can infect up to 10-15 other people every year. Most people who are infected with TB do not become sick; however, those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions are at greater risk for developing active TB disease.
Symptoms of active TB disease include:
• A bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer
• Pain in the chest
• Coughing up blood or sputum
• Weakness or fatigue
• Weight loss
• Fever
Chills
If you have symptoms of active TB disease, it is important to see a doctor right away so you can start treatment. Treatment for TB usually involves taking several antibiotics for several months. It is important to finish all of your medicine even if you start feeling better after a few weeks. Stopping treatment early can allow the bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics and make it much harder to treat your infection in the future.