Tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which primarily attacks the lungs, but can also affect other body parts such as the kidney, spine, and brain.
The WHO states that an estimated 10 million people worldwide fell ill with tuberculosis in 2019, and 1.4 million died from the disease. Tuberculosis is a treatable and curable disease with appropriate treatment and management.
However, the treatment process is lengthy, and patients need a combination of medications and supportive care.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a comprehensive approach to tuberculosis management, including medication, surgery, and physiotherapy. In this article, we explore the vital role of physiotherapy in fighting tuberculosis.
Understanding Tuberculosis and Its Symptoms
Tuberculosis is spread when a person with an active infection of the bacteria releases droplets into the air by coughing, sneezing, or speaking. When someone inhales these droplets, they can become infected with the bacteria.
The symptoms of tuberculosis vary depending on the type of tuberculosis that a person has and the area of the body that is affected. Common symptoms include:.
- Coughing that lasts for more than two weeks
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood or phlegm
- Fever
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
In some cases, there may be no symptoms, and a person may find out about their infection through a tuberculosis test.
The Treatment of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis treatment involves a combination of medications that must be taken for at least six months to cure the disease. The treatment typically includes four medications administered daily (isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide).
After two months, a medical professional may reduce the number of medications to two (isoniazid and rifampin) for another four months.
While medication is central to tuberculosis treatment, it is not sufficient on its own. People with tuberculosis require a comprehensive management plan that includes supportive care, surgery, and/or physiotherapy.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Treating Tuberculosis
Physiotherapy is a vital component of tuberculosis management. It helps people with tuberculosis improve their lung function, boost their immune system, and reduce their risk of developing complications.
Physiotherapy aims to:.
- Improve airway clearance
- Improve function and exercise tolerance
- Promote self-management of symptoms and disease
- Prevent complications
Physiotherapy is particularly important in people with tuberculous pleuritis, a common complication of TB that involves inflammation of the pleural membrane surrounding the lungs.
It can cause fluid build-up between the pleura, making it difficult to breathe and leading to additional health complications if left untreated.
Physiotherapy can help manage tuberculous pleuritis by improving lung expansion, reducing inflammation, and promoting drainage of accumulated fluid.
Physiotherapists may use a range of techniques to maximise the effectiveness of the treatment plan. Techniques may include airway clearance through devices such as chest drainage, incentive spirometry, and nebulisers.
Exercise therapy, including individualised aerobic training programmes, can also be beneficial and improve lung function.
The Benefits of Physiotherapy in Combating Tuberculosis
The benefits of physiotherapy in tuberculosis management are numerous, but some of the most significant include:.
Improved Lung Function
Physiotherapy exercises can improve lung function and oxygenation. This benefit is particularly critical in people who have asbestos-based pulmonary fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, or interstitial lung disease.
Physiotherapy improves lung function by clearing mucus, strengthening lung muscles, and increasing the volume of air that gets into the lungs while breathing.
Improved Quality of Life
People with tuberculosis often experience a reduction in their quality of life due to the symptoms of the disease and the medication’s side effects. Physiotherapy can counteract the side effects of medication and improve overall well-being.
Exercise therapy can reduce fatigue and improve sleep, while breathing exercises can reduce anxiety, making it easier for people to adjust to their medication regimen.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Tuberculosis can cause complications that lead to long-term disability or death. Common complications include tuberculous pleuritis, pneumonia, meningitis, and miliary tuberculosis.
Physiotherapy can help prevent complications by improving lung function and airway clearance, reducing inflammation, and promoting drainage of accumulated fluid. Early intervention can reduce the need for more aggressive interventions, such as surgery.
Conclusion
Tuberculosis remains a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide every year. While medication is crucial in treating the disease, it is not sufficient on its own.
Physiotherapy plays a critical role in TB management, improving lung function, reducing the risk of complications, and increasing overall well-being and quality of life. Early intervention is essential to maximise the benefits of physiotherapy and minimise the need for more aggressive interventions.
