TB and AIDS are two of the most lethal infectious diseases responsible for killing a large number of people worldwide. Both were identified a long time ago, but there are still millions of people getting infected and diseased every year.
In this article, we will be discussing TB and AIDS in detail, including their causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention measures.
What is TB?
TB, or tuberculosis, is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, and spine.
The bacteria that cause TB are mainly spread from person to person through tiny droplets from coughs or sneezes.
What are the symptoms of TB?
The symptoms of TB usually do not appear until the bacteria infect in the lungs. The common symptoms that a person with TB will experience are:.
- Cough lasting for three weeks or more
- Chest pain while breathing or coughing
- Blood in sputum (phlegm or mucus)
- Fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
How is TB treated?
TB can be cured with proper treatment, which usually consists of a combination of various antibiotics taken for several months. However, it is essential to complete the entire course of treatment to ensure that all the bacteria have been destroyed.
If not, the bacteria can develop resistance to the antibiotics, making the treatment ineffective.
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TB and AIDS are the leading infectious killers in the world
What is AIDS?
AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. It is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that attacks and destroys the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and cancers.
What are the symptoms of AIDS?
The symptoms of AIDS appear when the immune system is severely damaged. The most common symptoms that an individual with AIDS may experience are:.
- Fever and night sweats
- Chronic diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Oral thrush or a fungal infection on skin or nails
- Blisters or sores on the mouth, genitals, or anus
- Memory loss, confusion, or neurological disorders
- Depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues
How is AIDS treated?
Currently, there is no cure for AIDS, but several antiretroviral medications can slow down the progression of the disease.
The goal of treatment is to suppress the HIV virus effectively, enabling the immune system to recover and fight off other infections.
Prevention of AIDS and TB
Both TB and AIDS can be prevented by taking some vital steps:.
- Washing your hands regularly with soap and water
- Avoiding close contact with an infected person with a cough or cold
- Using condoms during sexual activity
- Getting tested for HIV and TB regularly, especially if you are sexually active or have a weakened immune system
- Taking medications as prescribed and for the entire course of treatment
Conclusion
In conclusion, TB and AIDS are deadly infectious diseases that can have severe impacts on public health worldwide.
Knowing the symptoms, treatments, and prevention measures of these infectious diseases can help prevent the spread of these diseases and, hopefully, eradicate them altogether.
