How do you get affected by tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial disease that most often affects the lungs. It is spread through the air when someone who is sick with TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks. You can also get TB by breathing in dust that has been contaminated with TB bacteria.

TB can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly affects the lungs. When TB bacteria enter the body, they travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. The bacteria can then multiply and cause inflammation in the lungs, leading to scarring and damage.

TB can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, bones, and skin. This is known as extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Extrapulmonary TB is more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer.

Symptoms of tuberculosis can include:

* Cough that lasts for more than 2 weeks

* Fever

* Night sweats

* Weight loss

* Fatigue

* Weakness

* Loss of appetite

* Difficulty breathing

* Chest pain

* Pain in the back or joints

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get tested for TB. Early diagnosis and treatment of TB is essential to prevent serious health problems.

There are several ways to get affected by tuberculosis:

* Through the air: TB is spread through the air when someone who is sick with TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks. You can breathe in TB bacteria when you are in close contact with someone who is sick with TB.

* By touching something that has been contaminated with TB bacteria: You can also get TB by touching something that has been contaminated with TB bacteria, such as a doorknob, a piece of clothing, or a contaminated surface.

* By eating or drinking something that has been contaminated with TB bacteria: You can also get TB by eating or drinking something that has been contaminated with TB bacteria, such as unpasteurized milk or contaminated food.

TB is not spread through casual contact, such as shaking hands or sharing a meal with someone who is sick with TB.

People who are at increased risk for getting TB include:

* People who have been in close contact with someone who is sick with TB

* People who live in or travel to countries where TB is common

* People who have weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer

* Children under the age of 5

If you are at increased risk for getting TB, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to protect yourself from the disease.

TB is a serious disease, but it is curable if it is diagnosed and treated early. If you have any symptoms of TB, it is important to see a doctor to get tested for TB.