Pulmonary Tuberculosis Specialists in Bansdroni, Kolkata, West Bengal

What is Pulmonary Tuberculosis?

Pulmonary tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection of the lungs caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. India carries one of the highest burdens of tuberculosis in the world, making it a major public health priority despite being both preventable and curable. The infection typically develops slowly, with the bacteria capable of remaining dormant in the body for years in a latent form before becoming active, particularly if the immune system weakens. Active pulmonary tuberculosis causes progressive lung damage and can be fatal without treatment, while also posing a risk of transmission to close contacts. A full course of multi-drug antibiotic therapy over several months is required to achieve a complete cure and prevent the emergence of drug-resistant strains.

Causes of Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, transmitted through inhalation of airborne droplets released by a person with active pulmonary disease. Close, prolonged contact with an infectious individual, particularly in crowded or poorly ventilated living conditions, significantly increases transmission risk. Risk factors for progression from latent infection to active disease include HIV infection, diabetes, malnutrition, smoking, and other conditions that weaken the immune system.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, coughing up blood or blood-streaked sputum, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, fatigue and weakness, loss of appetite

Treatment & Types of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Bansdroni, Kolkata, West Bengal

Treatment requires a combination of multiple antibiotics, typically including isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide, taken consistently for a minimum of six months under directly observed therapy to ensure completion and prevent drug resistance. Drug-resistant tuberculosis requires longer and more complex treatment regimens with second-line medications. Nutritional support and management of contributing conditions such as diabetes or HIV are important alongside antibiotic therapy for successful outcomes.

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