Can TB be cured permanently? Yes with the proper approach

Dr.Saurabh Tomar, 3 mins read

The good news is that the majority of tuberculosis (TB) cases can be cured completely with the proper care and medicines. The standard treatment includes a 6-month course - initially of four antitubercular drugs for two months followed by three antitubercular drugs for the next four months. These medicines are given under supervision and adjusted as per the patient’s condition.

Without proper and complete treatment, up to two-thirds of patients die. Thus, along with the right medicines and care, taking the full course of treatment is equally important.

What is tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacteria primarily affects the lungs. The worst part is that it can spread easily when the infected person coughs, sneezes or sings and another person inhales the infected droplets present in the air. People with preexisting serious conditions like HIV/AIDS are more at risk of catching this infection because of weakened immune systems.

The symptoms depend on the stage of tuberculosis:

Primary tuberculosis
This is the first stage of tuberculosis wherein the immune system captures and destroys the TB germs. However, some germs still manage to survive and multiply. Most patients don’t experience any symptoms, but those who do experience flu-like symptoms.

Latest tuberculosis
This is the next stage of primary tuberculosis where immune cells build a wall around lung cells with TB germs. Usually, people don’t experience any symptoms as the immune system keeps control over the germs.

Active tuberculosis
When the immune system is unable to control the germs and they start affecting the lungs and other parts of the body, this condition is labelled as active tuberculosis. It can either happen right after primary TB infection or months/years after latent TB infection. Active tuberculosis can cause symptoms like cough (sometimes with blood/mucus), chest pain, chills, weight loss, pain during breathing and coughing, fever, tiredness, and loss of appetite.

Understanding TB Treatment

The treatment of tuberculosis usually includes a combination of antibiotics. These medications need to be taken for at least six months. Sometimes patients may need to take them for a year or more. The most commonly used antibiotics are isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF). In some cases, additional antibiotics may be prescribed.

Can TB Be Cured Permanently?

Tuberculosis (TB) is curable with proper treatment under the right expert. The treatment success rate depends on a range of factors, like region and stage of TB. The success rate of tuberculosis treatment in adults and children (0 to 14 years) is around 86% and 88% respectively. The treatment success rate of TB in people with HIV infection is around 77%.

However, it's essential to complete the full treatment course, even if symptoms disappear before finishing the medication. Stopping the treatment early can make the TB bacteria resistant to the drugs. You can discuss with your doctor when you can stop taking medicines.

What factors can affect TB treatment?

• Adherence to treatment: As discussed earlier, completing the full treatment course is crucial for cure.
• Drug resistance: TB strains resistant to antibiotics can make treatment more challenging. In such cases, the doctor may suggest additional antibiotics.
• HIV co-infection: People living with HIV are more susceptible to TB and may require additional treatment because of their weak immune systems.

How to Prevent TB Relapse?

Around 10% to 12% of recovered TB patients can catch tuberculosis again. This is called relapse of tuberculosis. It is mostly seen in smokers, alcoholics, and diabetic people. Here are some ways to reduce your chances of TB recurrence.

• Complete treatment: The most important thing for the cure and prevention of relapse is to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms disappear.
• Attend follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your progress and diagnose any problem at an early stage.
• Practice good hygiene: If you are infected, cover your mouth when coughing, wash your hands regularly, and avoid close contact with others. Take these measures until your treatment is completed. If someone in your home or friend circle is infected, take measures while meeting them. Wear an N95 mask and ensure proper hygiene.
• Get vaccinated: The BCG vaccine can help prevent TB, especially in children. Talk to a doctor about whether you should get this vaccine.