Q. What is latent tuberculosis, and how is it different from active TB?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Latent tuberculosis (LTBI) and active tuberculosis (TB) represent two stages of infection with the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
1. Latent Tuberculosis (LTBI):
- In LTBI, a person is infected with the TB bacteria, but they do not exhibit any symptoms of active TB disease. The bacteria are alive but in a dormant state. Individuals with LTBI cannot spread the infection to others. LTBI is diagnosed through positive results in tests such as the tuberculin skin test (TST or Mantoux test) or interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs). While LTBI does not cause illness, there is a risk that it can progress to active TB disease, especially if the person's immune system becomes compromised.
2. Active Tuberculosis (TB):
- Active TB occurs when the TB bacteria become active and multiply, leading to clinical symptoms and illness. Individuals with active TB can spread the infection to others through the release of infectious respiratory droplets. Common symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and fatigue. Active TB is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies (such as chest X-rays), and laboratory tests, including sputum cultures and nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs).
The key differences between LTBI and active TB lie in the presence of symptoms, the ability to transmit the infection to others, and the need for treatment:
- Symptoms: LTBI is asymptomatic, whereas active TB manifests with clinical symptoms.
- Transmission: Individuals with LTBI are not infectious and cannot spread TB to others. In contrast, those with active TB can transmit the infection to others.
- Treatment: LTBI is typically treated to prevent the progression to active disease, especially in individuals with risk factors. Active TB requires more extensive and prolonged treatment with a combination of antibiotics.
Detection and treatment of LTBI are crucial components of TB control and prevention efforts, as they can help reduce the incidence of active TB cases and prevent the spread of the disease.
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Answered by Secondmedic ExpertDealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:
1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.
2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.
3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.
4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.
5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.
7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.
Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.
Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.
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