What Are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis, and How Is It Diagnosed?

Question

I recently heard about tuberculosis (TB) and was surprised to learn that it’s still a major infectious disease affecting millions worldwide. From what I understand, tuberculosis is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, but what are the early signs of tuberculosis symptoms?

I read that tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs, but it can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, brain, and kidneys. How do doctors diagnose TB, and what tests are required to confirm the infection?

One thing that concerns me is that some forms of TB are drug-resistant, making treatment more difficult. What are the best ways to prevent tuberculosis and strengthen immunity naturally?

Are there any Ayurvedic or natural remedies that help support lung health and boost recovery from TB? I’ve heard that Tulsi, Giloy, and Black Pepper are used in Ayurveda for respiratory health—do these actually work?

If anyone has had tuberculosis, what symptoms appeared first, and what treatments were most effective? Did you experience any side effects from TB medications?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Thank you for sharing your questions about tuberculosis (TB). You’re right—TB is a significant global health concern. It’s caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria and primarily affects the lungs, though it can spread to other organs.

Early symptoms of TB often include:

Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
Chest pain and coughing up blood (in severe cases)
Fever, night sweats, and unintentional weight loss
Fatigue and loss of appetite
If TB spreads beyond the lungs (extrapulmonary TB), symptoms can vary based on the affected organ—such as joint pain (bones) or confusion (brain).

TB diagnosis involves a few key tests:

Chest X-ray: To check for lung damage
Sputum test: Identifies TB bacteria in mucus
Tuberculin skin test (Mantoux test) or Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA): Measures immune response to TB exposure
CT scans or biopsies may be done for extrapulmonary cases.
Drug-resistant TB is a growing challenge. Prevention involves:

BCG vaccination in children (though its efficacy is limited in adults).
Hygiene and nutrition: Strengthening immunity with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Avoiding close contact with those known to have active TB.
Natural remedies like Tulsi (Holy Basil), Giloy, and Black Pepper may help boost immunity and support lung health, but they are not replacements for medical treatment. TB requires strict adherence to antibiotics for 6-9 months, and skipping doses increases drug resistance.

If you suspect TB, please seek medical care for proper testing and treatment. Prompt intervention is key to recovery and preventing spread.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but sometimes spreading to other organs. Early symptoms include a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, fever, and chest pain. Diagnosis is confirmed through sputum tests, chest X-rays, and TB skin or blood tests. Drug-resistant TB is a concern, making prevention crucial through strong immunity and hygiene. Ayurveda recommends Tulsi, Giloy, and Black Pepper to support lung health, reduce inflammation, and enhance immunity. Chyawanprash, rich in Amla, can also help strengthen respiratory function. Along with prescribed TB medications, proper nutrition, deep breathing exercises, and a sattvic diet aid recovery and prevent complications. If symptoms persist or worsen, immediate medical attention is necessary.

What Are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis, and How Is It Diagnosed? - #15378

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