Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that can be controlled by immunization. It was becoming rare in developed countries but, since Aids can predispose to TB, more cases are now being seen. Tuberculosis is endemic in countries where there is overriding poverty, malnutrition, and overcrowding but is rapidly increasing elsewhere. The rise of HIV means more people are susceptible to TB, which thrives where the immune system is debilitated. Migration, tourism, and international air travel have helped to transmit the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis with frightening efficiency. TB is highly infectious and easily spread through moisture droplets in the air. Bodily contact is not necessary. The most commmon site of infection is the lungs, but it can also be found in the lymph glands and membranes covering the brain.

The symptoms of TB are weight loss, fever, and night sweats; persistent cough with yellow or bloodstained phlegm, chest pain, breathlessness; swelling of lymph glands, sometimes with discharge through skin; soft bones and collapse of bones leading to deformity; destruction of kidneys and inflammation of bladder.

Treatment

Naturopathy Garlic is particularly effective. A high-altitude cure used to be recommended: good diet, rest, relaxation, freedom from stress, sun, and clean, clear fresh air.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Homeopathy and Aromatherapy Both can be very helpful in easing symptoms. A homeopath may offer a "nosode" (a remedy made from a sample of diseased tissue) as a preventive.