29. Tuberculosis and the Respiratory System

Tuberculosis and the Respiratory System

Tuberculosis is an infectious and transmissible disease that primarily affects the lungs, although it can affect other organs and systems. The causative agent is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, also known as Koch's bacillus. This disease is one of the leading causes of death from infectious diseases in the world, especially in developing countries.

How does tuberculosis affect the respiratory system?

Tuberculosis is a disease of the respiratory system because it is transmitted through the air. When a person with active TB coughs, sneezes or talks, they release tiny particles containing Koch's bacillus into the air. If someone else inhales these bacilli, they can lodge in the lungs, where they multiply and can cause illness.

Once in the lungs, the tubercle bacilli cause inflammation that leads to the formation of small nodules, called tubercles. Over time, these tubercles can rupture, releasing the bacilli into the lung. This can cause a serious and potentially fatal infection.

Symptoms of tuberculosis

Symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis can include a persistent cough, chest pain, and sputum that can sometimes contain blood. Other common symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, fever and night sweats. If left untreated, tuberculosis can be fatal.

Diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis

The diagnosis of tuberculosis is made through clinical, radiological and laboratory tests. The treatment is long, lasts at least six months and must be strictly followed to avoid the development of resistant forms of the disease.

Despite being a serious disease, tuberculosis is curable in most cases, as long as the treatment is carried out properly. The best form of prevention is through vaccination, especially in children, and disease control in infected people, to prevent the spread of the bacillus.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis is a serious disease that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is essential to know the symptoms and seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications. Prevention, through vaccination and disease control in infected people, is the best way to combat this disease.

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