A variety of antibiotics are often administered for a lengthy period of time as part of the treatment for TB. Although effective, this routine can be emotionally and physically taxing. When combined with conventional therapy, alternative and complementary therapies seek to offer a holistic level of support, control side effects, and enhance the general quality of life for TB patients. This study examines potential complementary and alternative therapies that could be used in addition to standard TB treatment.
https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-020-03157-2
Introduction:
A variety of antibiotics are often administered for a lengthy period of time as part of the treatment for TB. Although effective, this routine can be emotionally and physically taxing. When combined with conventional therapy, alternative and complementary therapies seek to offer a holistic level of support, control side effects, and enhance the general quality of life for TB patients.
1. Support for nutrition
In order to strengthen the body’s immune system and general health while receiving TB therapy, nutrition is crucial. People can fight the virus and recover more quickly by eating a well-balanced diet high in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
2.Treatments using herbs:
Some herbs, like echinacea, ginger, and garlic, are thought to have immune-boosting effects and may speed up healing. These should, however, only be used under careful supervision and after consulting a medical professional.
3. Mind-Body Exercises
As stress can affect the immune system, it is essential to manage stress during TB therapy. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises are examples of mind-body techniques that can help lower stress, enhance mental health, and boost general wellness.
4. Traditional Medicine:
Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are two traditional medical systems that are employed in some cultures as a supplemental form of care for tuberculosis (TB). These systems’ practitioners could suggest individualized food recommendations and herbal medicines.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2020.00594/full
5. Acupuncture
Thin needles are inserted into particular body locations during acupuncture, a practice that belongs to TCM. For some people, it’s useful in controlling the pain and nauseous side effects of TB drugs.
6. Homeopathy
Some people choose to employ homeopathic treatments to relieve particular TB side effects or symptoms. These treatments must be prescribed by a licensed homeopathic doctor because they are very customized.
7. Aromatherapy
Growing in popularity is the use of essential oils for stress alleviation and symptom relief. Reduced stress and respiratory problems may be helped by oils like lavender and eucalyptus.
8.Supportive Therapies
In order to address the emotional and psychological difficulties that frequently accompany TB treatment, counselling, support groups, and psychotherapy can be quite helpful.
Conclusion:
While complementary and alternative treatments for TB show potential, they shouldn’t take the place of traditional TB care. When used in conjunction with traditional medical care, these methods work best. It’s critical for people thinking about these therapies to speak with their doctors to assess their safety and suitability for their treatment plan. The more we learn about these treatments, the more they might be able to help us manage TB holistically and help those who are afflicted by the disease have better outcomes and a higher quality of life.
Resources:
https://www.stlukes-stl.com/health-content/medicine/33/000165.htm