
Tuberculosis
In the old days, tuberculosis was commonly known as Consumption because that describes the illness as it wastes or consumes its victims.
Nowadays, tuberculosis is a treatable disease with millions of healthy survivors to prove it!
The Peermed team is extremely experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of TB - if you have any concerns come and talk to us
Tuberculosis Is Curable
Tuberculosis has reached epidemic proportions in South Africa, and yet it does not have to be this way.
The majority of cases of TB can be managed, treated and cured. If you or any of your loved ones suspect that they have TB, act immediately. The longer TB remains untreated, the more people can become infected.
Remember that all healthcare issues are treated with the utmost confidence at Peermed.
How does my Peermed doctor diagnose TB?
- Chest x-rays
- Analysis of sputum (mucus
- Skin tests
The link between TB and HIV
HIV patients must be treated regularly for the presence of TB as it is very important to begin medication as soon as possible.
Your Peermed GP will work out a comprehensive treatment which will work alongside your ARV medication.
What is Tuberculosis?
What are the common symptoms of TB?
There are no symptoms until the infection reaches the lungs. As the bacteria are slow moving, TB develops gradually. When symptoms do begin to appear, you may experience a combination of:
- Tiredness
- Fever
- Loss of weight
- Coughing
- Night sweats
Can my baby contract TB?
Babies and children are at high risk for contracting tuberculosis when they:
- Are born in a country with a high rate of T
- Have a weakened immune system
- Live in a household with an adult who has TB
- Live in communities with inadequate health care
- As babies cannot tell you how they are feeling, do not take any chances. If your baby may have been in contact with a TB sufferer, come in and see your Peermed doctor as soon as possible.
A worrying trend seen by health practitioners is that many people stop taking their medication.
This can be a fatal decision.
If you are prescribed medication never stop taking them and never alter the amount you take. These are decisions that must be made by your General Practitioner
WHAT IS DRUG-RESISTANT TB?
Reduce the spread of TB
Get tested for TB regularly, especially if you are HIV-positive.
If someone near you coughs or sneezes, turn your head away and cover your mouth.
Open windows in crowded spaces.
If you have TB, take your medicine as prescribed - never deviate.
Ask Us A Question
MEDICAL INFORMATION