Understanding Pott’s disease : Spinal tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection which mainly affects the lungs. However it can also affect other parts of the body such as the spine. Tuberculosis affecting the spine is - Spinal tuberculosis or Pott’s disease. This condition is extrapulmonary kind of tuberculosis, meaning it begins in the lungs but doesn’t stay there and moves to the spine. Spinal TB affects the bones of the spine, which is called the vertebrae. It is a very serious condition if not treated in time can become fatal. 

How to know if it’s spinal tuberculosis ?

• Prolonged back pain
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever
• Weakness
• Paralysis
• Pain while turning and twisting

The pott’s disease affects the thoracic and lumbar spine causing various neurological, vertebral and spinal concerns. There are factors leading to spinal tuberculosis which are : 

• Malnutrition
• Living in unhygienic conditions
• The bacteria spreads from the lungs to the spine via blood
• It can spread from infected structures
• It can move in the lymphatic system
• Coming in close contact with an infected person

You can prevent it if you take prior action against it. Being aware of the preventive measures helps to keep a step ahead of the disease and save lives. Here are some of the preventive measures you need to follow to be safe from spinal tuberculosis : 

• Get early checkup and treatment done
• Take the vaccination
• Maintain good hygiene 
• Practice healthy living habits
• Follow a balanced diet
• Avoid coming in close contact to tb patients
• Go for regular screenings

Spinal tuberculosis is a serious condition which can have fatal results if not treated on time. Know more about it and spread awareness. As early detection can save lives.