Tuberculosis (TB): Causes, Symptoms, and the Importance of Early Testing
‘It’s just a lingering cough’, we say likewise. But what if it’s more than just a cough? What if it’s a red flag for one of the world’s oldest and most durable infections – tuberculosis (TB)? Even with advances in medical science, TB still silently kills millions every year, particularly in developing countries such as India. The good news? TB is preventable, treatable and curable, when diagnosed in time.
In this blog, we break down the essentials – what TB is, what causes it, types of TB, symptoms and diagnosis, and how Yoda Diagnostics helps you in getting tested for it now more easily than ever!
What is Tuberculosis? How Does It Occur?
Tuberculosis is an infection that is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It spreads through the air when someone who is infected coughs, sneezes, talks or even laughs. Transmission risk spikes in crowded or poorly ventilated places.
But here’s the catch! Not everyone who inhales TB bacteria gets sick.
Did you know? The TB bacteria can live in your body for years without you knowing. This stage is known as latent TB. You are not contagious, but the infection can be triggered at any time, particularly if your immune system is weakened.
A Close-Up Look: Why TB Matters in India
- India has the highest burden of TB in the world, with about 27% of all new and relapse cases reported worldwide, according to the WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2023.
- In 2022 so far, more than 24 lakh TB cases have been reported in India.
- Even children are not spared. About 3 lakh pediatric TB cases are registered every year.
- And the risk of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) continues to rise, with India recording over 1.1 lakh drug-resistant cases in 2022.
It is clear that TB is not only a threat to our health but also a national emergency.
Types of tuberculosis
TB doesn’t confine itself to the lungs. TB comes in different shapes, depending on the body part it is attacking:
1. Pulmonary TB
This is the most prevalent and contagious type. It infects the lungs and can cause:
- Cough (lasting more than 3 weeks)
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood or mucus
2. Extrapulmonary TB
TB can also infect the following when it escapes the lungs:
- Brain (leading to TB meningitis)
- Bones (causing pain and fractures)
- Other sites including lymph nodes, kidneys or reproductive organs
3. Latent TB
No symptoms. No transmission. But it might quietly progress to active TB, years down the road, without medical treatment.
4. Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB)
If antibiotics are not used correctly or fully, the TB bacteria can develop resistance. This kind requires more potent drugs, longer tuberculosis treatment and specialist care.
Is It Just a Cold… or Is It TB?
The early tuberculosis symptoms resemble flu or simple tiredness, they can deceive anyone. That is why TB is often silent for months on end.
Be on the lookout for these frequent symptoms:
- A cough that has been present for more than 3 weeks
- Feels warm or has chills or unexplained fever or night sweats
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis symptoms vary according to the organ involved. For example:
- TB of the spine can lead to prolonged back pain
- TB in lymph nodes (those located at the neck or armpits, for example) could cause swelling
- When TB attacks the brain, it can result in confusion, headaches and neck stiffness
The Sooner We Diagnose Tuberculosis, the Better
Early detection saves lives – not just your own, but other people’s as well. The common TB tests include:
- Sputum Test for TB – Mucus from lungs is examined for TB bacteria.
- Skin test (Mantoux test) – A tiny amount of protein is injected under your skin and we check for a reaction
- Chest X-rays/CT scans — For finding lung damage
- Biopsy/FNAC – Done for extra-pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosis
Yoda Diagnostics: How This TB Diagnostics Solution Takes the Hassle Out of the Process
We understand that there can be all kinds of barriers and fears when it comes to getting a test. This is why Yoda Tuberculosis Screening gives you:
- Results within 24 hours
- Free home sample collection
- Big or small – affordable and well supported
- Compassionate care from the moment you arrive
- No long queues. No hospital visits. Care you can count on right at home.
Don’t wait. Book your home test for tuberculosis diagnosis today!
TB Myths Busted
- Myth: TB affects only poor people.
Fact: TB can affect even rich and healthy people, regardless of background - Myth: TB is always infectious.
Fact: Only pulmonary TB is infectious - Myth: You can’t work or live normally if you have TB.
Fact: With tuberculosis treatment, you can lead a healthy, normal life.
Final Word: TB Does Not Define You
TB is neither a punishment nor a stigma – it is a disease. One that modern medicine can identify, treat and cure.
At Yoda Diagnostics, we don’t just provide TB tests in Hyderabad. We provide care, compassion and clarity. Don’t let tuberculosis symptoms be a source of shame.
TB might have been a piece of your story. But now you’re in charge of how it ends. Ready to take the first step? Book your Yoda TB Screening Test with free home collection and results in 24 hours.
