Overview
Tuberculosis (TB) remains an important respiratory disease in India. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and can affect the lungs (pulmonary TB) or other organs. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent cough lasting more than 2-3 weeks
- Fever (often low-grade, especially in evenings)
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Haemoptysis (blood in sputum)
- Breathlessness
- Abnormal chest X-ray findings
When to Consult a Pulmonologist
Consult if you have persistent cough, fever, weight loss, night sweats, haemoptysis, or an abnormal chest X-ray.
How We Diagnose It
Diagnosis may involve sputum examination (smear, culture, molecular testing), chest X-ray or CT, bronchoscopy in selected cases, and blood tests.
Treatment Approach
TB treatment involves a course of multiple antibiotics (anti-tubercular therapy) under medical supervision. Adherence to the full course is essential. Regular monitoring for drug effects and treatment response is important.
Important: All treatment decisions are individualised based on your specific symptoms, investigation results, comorbidities and preferences. Discuss your treatment plan with Dr. Joydeep Ganguly at Chest Clinic, Berhampore.
