Pulmonologist warns of the importance of detecting tuberculosis in time
2 minutes read
- Pulmonologist Juan Ramón Tejeda Gómez, of Médico Express, recalls that a cough lasting more than two weeks is a warning sign of tuberculosis and stresses the importance of early diagnosis.
Tuberculosis remains a major public health problem worldwide, with millions of cases recorded every year. Faced with that reality, Médico Express pulmonologist Dr Juan Ramón Tejeda Gómez highlighted the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and timely treatment in reducing the impact of this infectious disease.
The specialist explained that tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a microorganism that mainly affects the lungs and that has been with humanity for centuries. Despite medical advances, he noted that the disease still poses a health challenge because of how easily it spreads and the number of people who fall ill with it each year around the world.
Dr Tejeda Gómez said that among the most common symptoms is a cough lasting more than two weeks, considered one of the main warning signs. There may also be fever, night sweats, tiredness, chest pain and weight loss.
The pulmonologist explained that in some cases the disease can also show up as a cough with phlegm or even with blood. He therefore recommended seeing a doctor when these symptoms appear without a clear cause, since an early assessment makes it possible to confirm or rule out the disease.
On transmission, the specialist noted that tuberculosis spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or sings, releasing small particles that can be inhaled by others, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated places.
He stressed that keeping spaces ventilated, covering your mouth when coughing and seeking medical attention for persistent respiratory symptoms are important measures for reducing the risk of infection and protecting those who share the same environment.
Finally, Dr Tejeda Gómez highlighted that in recent years rapid molecular tests have been developed that can detect the disease within a few hours and identify whether the bacterium is resistant to some medicines. He also stressed that early diagnosis and completing the full course of treatment are essential to avoiding complications and halting the spread of tuberculosis in the community.
About Médico Express
A modern outpatient care centre, designed, built and operated to international standards, with a model of care centred on the patient and their family.
It is strategically located on the San Isidro highway to meet the health service needs of the local population and of tourists.
Médico Express promotes innovation, research, digital transformation, knowledge transfer and best practice, taking Dominican medicine to an international stage.