Persistent Cough? Be Aware of Tuberculosis (TB)!

A chronic cough is one of the most common signs of tuberculosis (TB). If you or someone you know has been coughing for an extended period, seeking medical attention is important to prevent complications.

Tuberculosis symptoms starts with chronic cough (source: tock[1] )

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs (pulmonary TB). However, TB can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, lymph nodes, brain lining, bones, and joints—a condition known as extrapulmonary TB.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2023 report, Indonesia ranks among the top five Southeast Asian countries with the highest number of TB cases, recording 821,200 cases in 2023. TB is also the second deadliest infectious disease worldwide, making early detection and prevention crucial.

Common Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)

Here are the primary lung TB symptoms:

● Persistent cough lasting more than 2 weeks, often with thick yellow or green phlegm—in severe cases, the cough may contain blood.

● Chest pain when breathing or coughing.

●  Prolonged fever, especially at night, accompanied by excessive sweating.

●  Unexplained weight loss, sometimes drastic.

●  Chronic fatigue and weakness, even after adequate rest.

If TB spreads beyond the lungs, symptoms can vary depending on the affected organ:

●   Spinal TB: Back pain.

●  Intestinal TB: Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

●  Lymph node TB: Swollen lymph nodes.

●  Brain TB: Headaches and seizures.

What Causes Tuberculosis?

TB spreads through airborne droplets, meaning anyone can contract it. However, certain factors increase the risk of infection, including:

● Smoking (both active and passive exposure).

●  Weakened immune system due to illness, medication, or aging.

●  Infants and children, whose immune systems are still developing.

● Excessive alcohol consumption weakens immunity.

●  Traveling to high-TB-risk areas.

How to Prevent Tuberculosis (TB)?

There is no absolute prevention for TB, but you can reduce the risk through these steps:

1. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
   Strengthen your immune system with a nutrient-rich diet and regular exercise.
2. Get Vaccinated (BCG Vaccine)
   The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is mandatory for infants in Indonesia and recommended for children, teenagers, and unvaccinated adults.
3. Ensure Good Air Circulation
   Since TB spreads through coughing and sneezing, improve ventilation at home and practice proper cough etiquette—cover your mouth, wear a mask, and maintain social distance.

Although TB is a serious condition, it can be treated with anti-tuberculosis medication (OAT). This treatment requires consistent use for 6–12 months to gradually eliminate the bacteria and reduce transmission risks.

Investing in a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term well-being. Protect yourself not just through good habits but also with health insurance, which provides financial security against future medical risks.