What is TB meningitis? What are the early-stage symptoms?

Thursday 21 November 2019

What is TB meningitis? What are the early-stage symptoms?

TB is a scary word, and being infected with TB is also a risky factor. It's reasonable to assume that TB is one of the major diseases out there and therefore it becomes extremely important that we remain vigilant against these diseases. TB meningitis has an extremely unique problem associated with it. The victims of this fatal disease exhibit very little early signs. Because of this, the disease is often overlooked by patients and doctors alike. TB meningitis can initially display vague symptoms such as aches and pains, loss of appetite and tiredness, usually with a persistent headache. Because these symptoms are extremely vague, identification becomes a problem. The only point in which the disease is identified is when the symptoms become more severe, however by this time it may be too late to do anything. The slow progression of the disease is another prominent feature which makes it difficult to diagnose and it is often advanced before treatment begins.

The disease is caused when someone with T sneezes and the droplets which contain the Tuberculosis bacteria is inhaled by the victims. The bacteria then go unto the lungs and starts multiplying in the lungs. The bacteria then enter the bloodstream through the lungs and begins to spread. Once these bacteria enter the bloodstream it's relatively easy for it to effect sensitive tissues like the meninges (protective layers that protect the brain) and brain tissue. Here, it forms small abscesses (tubercles/microtubules). Once these abscesses burst, it leads to TB Meningitis. This causes pressure on the brain and nervous tissue causing damage to them. The damage caused here is the real reason why meningitis progresses into a fatal disease.

It can be scary to be encountered with this disease or to have someone infected. If you belong to this category, we want to tell you not to be scared, there are treatments out there that have a proven track record in curing such diseases. Reach out to us and we'll help recommend an appropriate course of action.