Tuberculosis (TB)-Overview-Simple words
Tuberculosis, also known as TB, is a serious and contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body. TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is usually spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. When someone breathes in the bacteria, it can settle in the lungs and begin to multiply. The body's immune system will then try to fight off the infection, and in some cases, it can successfully do so, which is known as latent TB. However, in other cases, the bacteria can continue to grow and cause active TB, which is when someone experiences symptoms. Symptoms of TB can vary and may include coughing, chest pain, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. If left untreated, TB can lead to serious health problems and even death. TB is treatable with a course of antibiotics that typically lasts several months. It's important to take all of the prescribed medication, even if you