Many of us have witnessed an acquaintance, relative, or neighbor struggling with TB. This disease not only exhausts the body but also debilitates the mind due to the long treatment and strict rules. The situation is expected to become more serious in 2025. According to the Ministry of Health and the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), approximately 25.5 million TB patients have been registered in the country. This number indicates that this disease still poses a significant challenge among us.

TB is not confined to the lungs

Experts say that TB is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which typically attacks the lungs. When confined to the lungs, patients experience problems such as cough, chest pain, and blood in the sputum. However, the situation becomes more serious when it spreads to other parts of the body. If it reaches the spine, joints, kidneys, or brain, it can cause serious problems such as pain, paralysis, or meningitis.

The Biggest Mistake

TB treatment is lengthy, typically lasting six to nine months. Doctors say that the infection is completely eradicated only when the medications are taken on time and regularly. However, sometimes the medications can be difficult to administer, and taking them on an empty stomach can cause stomach pain or weakness, leading some patients to discontinue their medication. This mistake makes the disease extremely dangerous.

Discontinuing medication leads to ‘drug-resistant TB’

According to experts, when patients discontinue their medication, the TB bacteria do not die but instead return stronger. This is called ‘drug-resistant TB’. In this condition, standard medications are ineffective, forcing the patient to resort to stronger, more painful medications. Sometimes, the medications even require injections.

Treatment can take years, and the patient’s condition continues to deteriorate. Lungs become more damaged, breathing difficulties increase, and the infection can spread again, putting others at risk.

What’s needed is not just treatment, but also patience and awareness

Some patients treated at AIIMS, Delhi, say that many had to continue treatment for three years. Those treated at government centers face lengthy paperwork, leaving them mentally exhausted.

But no matter how difficult it is, leaving TB treatment incomplete is not safe under any circumstances. This is a mistake that can even be fatal.

FAQs

Question 1: Can TB be completely cured?

Yes, if medications are taken regularly and the full course is completed, TB can be completely cured.

Question 2: How much does stopping medication increase the risk?

Discontinuing medication can cause TB to become drug-resistant, making treatment very long, difficult, and expensive.

Question 3: Is TB spread to others?

Yes, pulmonary TB can spread through the air. Therefore, patients must take precautions.

Question 4: Does the government provide assistance to TB patients?

Under the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP), patients are provided free medication and sometimes nutritional support.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on information from health experts and government sources. It is for public awareness purposes only. In case of any symptoms or health problems, it is important to consult a qualified doctor immediately.