Mengenal Penyebab, Gejala, dan Pengobatan TBC

Summary

Dr. Antin Tani, a specialist in pulmonary medicine at Rumah Sakit Premier Bintaro, discusses tuberculosis (TBC), a contagious disease caused by TBC bacteria. TBC typically affects the lungs but can also target other organs. In 2020, TBC led to 1.5 million deaths worldwide. It is preventable with the BCG vaccine and can be avoided by reducing contact with infected individuals. Symptoms include a persistent cough, chest pain, fever, and night sweats. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment with prescribed medication for at least six months are crucial to avoid drug resistance. TBC is treatable, and Dr. Antin encourages timely medical consultation for those showing symptoms.

Takeaways

• 😀 TBC (Tuberculosis) is a contagious disease caused by a bacterial infection, typically affecting the lungs but also other organs like the kidneys, spine, and brain.
• 😀 According to WHO, 1.5 million people died from TBC in 2020, making it the 13th leading cause of death globally and the second deadliest infectious disease after COVID-19.
• 😀 TBC can be prevented by administering the BCG vaccine, which should be given to babies before they reach two months of age.
• 😀 Preventative measures also include avoiding close contact with people who have TBC and wearing a mask in crowded places.
• 😀 TBC is transmitted when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets that can be inhaled by others.
• 😀 The risk of transmission is higher among people who live with someone infected with TBC.
• 😀 Common symptoms of pulmonary TBC include a cough lasting more than three weeks, which may be accompanied by sputum or blood, fever, chest pain, and night sweats.
• 😀 If someone experiences these symptoms, it is advised to see a doctor for immediate testing.
• 😀 TBC is treatable with medication, and treatment typically lasts for at least six months with specific types and dosages prescribed by a doctor.
• 😀 It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment to avoid drug resistance, which can make the infection harder to treat.

Q & A

What is tuberculosis (TBC)?

Tuberculosis (TBC) is an infectious disease caused by the tuberculosis bacteria. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other organs like the kidneys, spine, and brain.

How many people died from tuberculosis in 2020 according to the WHO?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1.5 million people died from tuberculosis in 2020.

Where does tuberculosis rank in terms of causes of death globally?

Tuberculosis is the 13th leading cause of death worldwide and the second most deadly infectious disease after COVID-19.

How can tuberculosis be prevented?

Tuberculosis can be prevented by administering the BCG vaccine to infants before the age of two months. Additionally, avoiding contact with infected individuals and wearing a mask in crowded places helps reduce the risk of transmission.

How does tuberculosis spread?

Tuberculosis spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets of saliva, which can be inhaled by others.

Who is at higher risk of contracting tuberculosis?

People who live in the same household as someone with tuberculosis are at a higher risk of contracting the disease.

What are the symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis?

Symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis include a cough lasting more than three weeks, which may be accompanied by sputum or blood. Other symptoms include fever, chest pain, and sweating, especially at night.

What should a person do if they experience symptoms of tuberculosis?

If someone experiences symptoms of tuberculosis, it is advised to seek medical examination and diagnosis from a doctor.

Can tuberculosis be treated?

Yes, tuberculosis can be treated with medication over a period of at least six months, following the prescribed drug regimen. It's important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully.

What happens if a tuberculosis patient does not follow the prescribed treatment?

If a tuberculosis patient does not adhere to the prescribed treatment or stops it prematurely, there is a risk of drug resistance, which means the bacteria may become immune to standard tuberculosis medications.