Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease usually caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It most often affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also impact other organs such as the lymph nodes, bones, kidneys or brain.

Symptoms
Active pulmonary TB may cause:

• Cough lasting two weeks or longer, sometimes producing sputum or blood
• Chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever and night sweats
• Fatigue and loss of appetite

TB outside the lungs produces symptoms depending on the affected organ, such as swollen lymph nodes, back pain or urinary problems.

Causes and Transmission
TB spreads when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets containing the bacteria. Not everyone exposed develops active TB. Many have latent TB infection, where bacteria are inactive and not contagious.

Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk for active TB if you have:

• Close contact with someone with active TB
• Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV, diabetes, certain medications)
• Malnutrition or substance use
• Lived or worked in crowded, poorly ventilated settings
• Recent travel or immigration from regions with higher TB rates

Diagnosis
TB evaluation includes a medical history, physical exam and tests. Common methods include:

• Chest X-ray
• Sputum tests (microscopy, cultures, nucleic acid amplification)
• Tuberculin skin test or blood tests for latent TB
• Imaging and tissue samples if organs outside the lungs are affected
  Drug susceptibility testing is used if active TB is diagnosed to guide treatment.

What is the difference between latent TB infection and active TB disease?
Latent TB means bacteria are in the body but inactive, with no symptoms and not contagious. Active TB means bacteria are multiplying, causing symptoms and potentially spreading, especially from the lungs.

How is TB treated, and how long does treatment take?
Active TB is usually treated with multiple antibiotics for at least six months, starting with drugs like isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol and pyrazinamide. Latent TB uses fewer medications for a shorter period. Drug-resistant TB requires specialized, longer treatment. TidalHealth specialists tailor care to each patient.

Is TB contagious and how can I protect others?
Pulmonary TB is contagious when bacteria are in sputum. Protect others by covering your mouth when coughing, wearing a mask, keeping rooms ventilated and seeking prompt medical care. Treatment reduces contagiousness; your healthcare team will guide isolation duration.

Can TB be cured?
Yes, most TB cases are curable with full adherence to prescribed treatment. Completing the full course reduces recurrence and drug resistance.

What about drug-resistant TB?
Drug-resistant TB does not respond to standard medications. Treatment is longer, more complex and may involve medicines with more side effects. TidalHealth provides personalized plans and support throughout treatment.

Should I get tested for TB?
Testing is advised if you have symptoms, close contact with TB, a weakened immune system, are starting immunosuppressive therapy or have been in areas with higher TB rates. Discuss your risk with your TidalHealth provider.

Is there a vaccine for TB?
The BCG vaccine is used in many countries to protect children from severe TB. Its effectiveness for adult lung TB varies, and vaccination decisions depend on risk and local guidelines.

When should I seek medical care?
See a provider if you have a cough lasting more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, or other concerning symptoms after possible TB exposure. Seek emergency care for trouble breathing, severe chest pain or high fever.