Tuberculosis

It is the latter part of the 19th century. Europe is plagued with a disease, called tuberculosis, which is killing one in four individuals. It is now the 20th century. The number of individuals effected by tuberculosis have subsided. It is now, 2009, and 3 million people this year will die from tuberculosis, alone.

1. Tuberculosis, also known as, TB, is a bacterial infection (Mycobacterium tuberculosis), which can spread through the lymph nodes and bloodstream, effecting any organ in the body.

2. Out of all the organs in the body, tuberculosis, is mainly a disease of the lungs. This bacteria can not only develop in the lungs themselves, but in the pleura (the outer lining of the lungs) and in the lymph nodes.

3. Most individuals who are exposed to tuberculosis, never develop any symptoms. On the other hand, if the person has a weak immune system, the tuberculosis bacteria will become active. Upon activation, the bacteria will begin to attack and deteriorate tissue within the organ system. If any the symptoms are left untreated, it can be fatal.

4. Tuberculosis is contracted through the inhalation of microscopic droplets, that are released into the air by infected individuals. Individuals infected with TB, can spread it through, coughing, sneezing, or even speaking. Even though the bacteria itself my remain in the air for hours, it is mainly killed by ultra violet rays, or sunlight.

5. Once, TB, becomes activated within the body, it will cause symptoms of chronic coughing, lose of appetite, weight loss, fever, fatigue, and night sweats.

6. In order to prevent, the contraction of tuberculosis, it is recommended that an individual receive the BCG vaccination. This vaccination not only, reduces the possibility of tuberculosis, but subsequent pulmonary TB.

7. If you or a loved one, happen to contract tuberculosis; not to worry. Today, tuberculosis, is treated over a six to nine month period with a vareity of antibiotics.