Like other communicable diseases, Tuberculosis (TB) is also a serious illness – a contagious one that largely affects the lungs. TB is caused by a bacterial infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. However, there are several other types of TB where different other organs of the body including the central nervous system are highly susceptible. Now, it’s very important to understand what should one do and what to avoid while struggling to eliminate TB from the planet, especially from India.
Despite the collective efforts of the government and healthcare sector, the number of rising TB cases has not shown a major decline. Although India has embarked upon many strategies to eliminate the disease by 2025, the very coveted goal may be accomplished if we join hands to fight against the disease.
Tuberculosis (TB) can be life-threatening if left untreated, but with proper treatment and care, it can be cured. If you have been diagnosed with TB, it is important to follow certain do’s and don’ts to avoid spreading the infection to others and to ensure a successful recovery, helping the menace TB eliminate from our land. Some essential ‘Do’s and Don’t’ have been suggested below that will help fight the battle against TB.
Do’s:
1. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing: TB spreads through the air, so it is important to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent the bacteria from spreading. Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose, and dispose of the tissue immediately in a sealed bag.
2. Good hygiene is the key: Depending on the environment, these tiny particles infected with Mycobacterium Tuberculosis can remain suspended in the air for several hours., so it is important to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and avoid sharing personal items such as towels, bedding, and utensils.
3. Follow a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help boost your immune system and improve your body’s ability to fight off infection. Once the respiratory system is infected or hosts the bacteria and it multiplies, an immune response is triggered in 2 to 8 weeks to encapsulate the majority of the bacteria. The immune system prevents the rapid multiplication of the Mtb and protects the body against any symptoms. It is hence, crucial to maintaining strong immunity. Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
4. Get plenty of rest: TB treatment can be exhausting, so it is important to get plenty of rest to help your body heal. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night and avoid strenuous activities that can tire you out.
5. Take your medication as prescribed: TB is treated with a combination of antibiotics that must be taken for at least six months. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before the course is over. Missing doses or stopping treatment too soon can lead to drug resistance and make the infection harder to treat.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t go to work or school: TB is highly contagious and can easily spread to others, so it is important to stay home from work or school until your doctor says it is safe to return.
2. Don’t visit crowded places: Avoid going to crowded places such as shopping malls, movie theatres, and public transportation, where you could infect others.
3. Don’t drink alcohol: TB medication can cause liver damage, and alcohol can make the damage worse. Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking TB medication.
4. Don’t smoke: Smoking can damage your lungs and make it harder for your body to fight off infection. If you smoke, try to quit, or at least avoid smoking while you are being treated for TB.
5. Don’t stop treatment too soon: TB treatment is a long process that requires patience and dedication. It is important to continue taking your medication even if you start feeling better. Stopping treatment too soon can lead to drug resistance and make the infection harder to treat.
Strategic Move towards TB Elimination
Despite considerable growth in the healthcare ecosystem and the policies and treatment in the field of Tuberculosis (TB) treatment, it remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases and has claimed millions of lives worldwide and continues to do so. While significant progress has been made towards controlling the afflictions caused by TB in recent years, better implementation of the schemes and relief factors are still needed. Emerging issues such as multi-drug resistance TB and extensively drug-resistant TB is daunting and threatens to ruin the progress we have made.
The knowledge and awareness pool for TB is ever-expanding and global guidelines are being changed to incorporate the new changes. Health professionals and doctors need to stay up to date with the current trends in TB management. The people should be vigilant and conducive to understanding the pathogenesis of TB, particularly taking into consideration the power of collective effort.
Conclusively, if you have been diagnosed with TB, it is important to take your medication as prescribed, practice good hygiene, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of rest. Avoid going to work or school, visiting crowded places, drinking alcohol, and smoking. With proper treatment and care, TB can be cured, and you can return to your normal life. If you have any questions or concerns about TB, talk to your healthcare provider.