Tuberculosis Prevention and Treatment: Key Insights

Q: Tuberculosis Prevention and Treatment: Key Insights

DEAR LISA： As long as your husband can take the medication for six months and achieve recovery, it is challenging to prevent further issues in daily life. <br>He should focus on maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise. <br>Air purifiers do not provide 100% ef

What are the prevention and treatment measures for tuberculosis?

Hello: My husband was hospitalized at National Taiwan University Hospital earlier this year and was diagnosed with tuberculosis, which the doctor said has been present for over six months.
I would like to ask: 1.
At that time, I had an X-ray that did not show any signs of tuberculosis.
How can I protect myself in daily life? Is using an air purifier effective? 2.
The doctor said he should not consume dairy products; why is that? 3.
There have been reports that the treatment medication may have side effects that could lead to blindness.
Are there ways to prevent this?

lisa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/28

Dr. Guo Conghuai reply Internal Medicine

DEAR LISA: As long as your husband can take the medication for six months and achieve recovery, it is challenging to prevent further issues in daily life.
He should focus on maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise.
Air purifiers do not provide 100% effectiveness, so controlling the source of infection is the most important factor.
The tuberculosis medication EMZ can cause optic nerve damage; if he experiences blurred vision after taking the medication, he should consult an ophthalmologist to determine if a different medication is necessary.

Reply Date: 2001/06/28

More Info

Understanding tuberculosis (TB) prevention and treatment is crucial, especially when a loved one is diagnosed with the disease. Here are some key insights based on your questions and the current medical understanding of TB.

1. Protecting Yourself from TB: Since your husband has been diagnosed with TB, it is essential to take precautions to protect yourself. TB is primarily spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Here are some steps you can take to minimize your risk:
- Avoid Close Contact: Try to maintain a safe distance from your husband, especially when he is coughing or sneezing. If possible, have him stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom.

- Ventilation: Ensure that the living space is well-ventilated. Open windows to allow fresh air to circulate, which can help dilute any airborne bacteria.

- Air Purifiers: While air purifiers can help reduce airborne particles, they are not a foolproof solution against TB. They may reduce the concentration of some pathogens but should not replace other preventive measures.

- Mask Wearing: Encourage your husband to wear a mask, especially when around others, to reduce the risk of spreading the bacteria.

- Regular Check-ups: Since you had a negative chest X-ray, continue to monitor your health. If you develop any symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, or weight loss, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

2. Dietary Restrictions: The recommendation for your husband to avoid dairy products may stem from the fact that some TB medications can interact with calcium, potentially affecting the absorption of the medication. Additionally, some individuals with TB may experience gastrointestinal issues, and dairy can exacerbate these symptoms. It's essential to follow your healthcare provider's dietary recommendations closely.

3. Potential Side Effects of TB Medications: Concerns about medications causing severe side effects, such as vision loss, are valid. Some TB drugs, particularly ethambutol, have been associated with optic neuropathy, which can lead to vision problems. To mitigate these risks:
- Regular Monitoring: Ensure that your husband has regular follow-ups with his healthcare provider, who can monitor for any side effects. Vision tests may be recommended before and during treatment.

- Report Symptoms: If your husband experiences any changes in vision or other concerning symptoms, he should report these to his doctor immediately. Early intervention can help manage side effects effectively.

- Adherence to Treatment: It is crucial for your husband to adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen. Skipping doses can lead to drug resistance, making the infection harder to treat.

In summary, protecting yourself from TB involves minimizing exposure, ensuring good ventilation, and maintaining regular health check-ups. Dietary restrictions may be necessary based on medication interactions, and monitoring for side effects is essential during treatment. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment plans.

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