World TB (Tuberculosis) Day will be celebrated on 24 March. This day is celebrated to make people aware about TB disease. TB is an infectious disease. Even today its cases are found in many countries of the world including India. A major reason for the still increasing cases of TB is that many people are not aware of its symptoms. Doctors say that a cough that has been going on for several weeks should never be ignored. This is because a cough that seems normal can sometimes be a sign of a serious disease like TB.
When can cough become TB? We have spoken to experts to know what the initial symptoms are and how to identify them.
When can cough be caused by TB disease?
Dr. Bhagwan Mantri in the Department of Pulmonology at Moolchand Medcity Hospital, Delhi Explains that if a person has a cough and he
If it persists for more than two weeks, it should not be considered normal. Along with this, some other symptoms also need to be paid attention to. Like mucus coming with cough, blood in cough, chest pain and rapid loss of weight, if these symptoms are present in the body and are gradually increasing then your cough TB Might be possible. In this case, there is a need to immediately consult a doctor.
Why does TB diagnosis become difficult?
Dr. Minister says that when cough occurs in the beginning of TB, people ignore it considering it to be a normal problem. This disease does not become serious immediately. It shows its effect gradually. In such a situation the patient feels that he is fine. In many cases this also happens due to lack of awareness. Many people do not know that prolonged cough can be a sign of TB. Many people go to the doctor late, due to which the disease progresses and there is a delay in diagnosis.
If symptoms of TB are visible then which tests should be done?
If you are seeing the symptoms mentioned by the doctor, then first of all go to a pulmonologist. He will diagnose the disease through chest X-ray, sputum examination and blood test. If TB is confirmed then the course of medicines is taken according to the disease. Which has to be completed correctly. In most cases, TB is controlled after completing the course.