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on Tuberculosis II - English
Tuberculosis Information
This
is the English version of a pamphlet that has been translated
into the Albanian language. Click
here for the Albanian language version. This pamphlet was
adapted (i.e., graphics added) by the Division of Tuberculosis
Control, Virginia Department of Health from materials developed
in 1993 by the New York State Department of Health.
 |
Information on Tuberculosis
(2) |
PDF |
INFORMATION
ON TUBERCULOSIS (2)
Your tests show that
you need to take medication for TB 
(tuberculosis).
TB is spread through the air, so anyone can get TB. Your doctor
has prescribed medicine to cure you. Having TB is very serious.
If you don’t take your medicine, TB can kill you. Even if
you feel OK now, you should take any medicine your doctor has
prescribed, and follow your doctor’s orders.
Why should I take my TB medicine?
TB can kill you. Taking your medicine can save your life!
You
will probably feel better after the first few weeks of treatment,
but you must KEEP taking your medicine until your doctor tells
you to stop. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, the TB
can come back and you might die. And taking your medicine can
keep you from spreading TB to your family, friends and others
you have close contact with.
How often should I take my medicine?
Follow your doctor’s
orders. Most people with TB have to take medicine regularly for
6 months or even longer. Your doctor will tell you when to stop.
Should I avoid certain foods or
other medicines while I’m taking my TB medicine?
No. But let your doctor
know what other medicines you’re taking. This is especially
important for women on the birth control pill, and for anyone
on methadone. And you should try to avoid alcohol while taking
your TB medicine.
Will I have side effects from
my TB medicine?
In most cases, no. Some
people have a loss of appetite, or get a rash. If you have either
of these problems, or notice 
anything
else unusual, tell your doctor or nurse. If you get a yellowing
of the eyes, or have dark brown urine, stop taking your medicine
and tell your doctor.
What will happen if I stop taking
my medicine?
The TB can come back even
worse, and you might spread it to others. You might even die.
How can I remember to take all
this medicine?
If you think that taking
your medicine is going to be hard to do, ask your doctor 
about
programs that can help you follow your doctor’s orders. You
can get help in getting to your doctor or clinic, or someone can
come to you every time you need to take your pills.
If you have any questions, be sure
to ask your doctor or nurse.
This is
the English version of a pamphlet that has been translated into
the Albanian language. Click
here for the Albanian language version. This pamphlet was
adapted (i.e., graphics added) by the Division of Tuberculosis
Control, Virginia Department of Health from materials developed
in 1993 by the New York State Department of Health.
