How are tuberculosis and pleurisy caused?

Under normal circumstances, pulmonary tuberculosis and pleurisy may be caused by factors such as low immunity, close contact with infectious sources, environmental conditions, tuberculosis infection involving the pleura, and diabetes. It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment as directed by a physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Low Immunity

When the body's immune system weakens—due to prolonged熬夜 (staying up late), excessive fatigue, or malnutrition—the body becomes less resistant to tuberculosis bacteria. Dormant tuberculosis bacteria in the body may become reactivated and multiply rapidly, making it easier for them to invade the pleura and lead to pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with pleurisy. To prevent this, maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid staying up late, and ensure 7–8 hours of adequate sleep each day. Pay attention to balanced nutrition by consuming sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals.

2. Close Contact with Infectious Sources

Close contact with individuals who have active pulmonary tuberculosis—such as sharing living, working, or studying environments—increases the risk of inhaling tuberculosis bacteria spread through coughing or sneezing. If these bacteria multiply extensively in the lungs and spread to the pleura, they can cause pulmonary tuberculosis accompanied by pleurisy. Avoid close contact with patients who have active tuberculosis. If unavoidable, wear a mask and take appropriate protective measures.

3. Environmental Factors

Long-term exposure to poorly ventilated and crowded environments allows tuberculosis bacteria to accumulate in the air, increasing the likelihood of infection. Once the infection spreads from the lungs to the pleura, it may result in pulmonary tuberculosis with pleurisy. Maintain good indoor ventilation by opening windows regularly. In crowded places, consider using air purifiers to reduce the concentration of tuberculosis bacteria in the air.

4. Tuberculosis Infection Involving the Pleura

Tuberculosis infection can lead to pulmonary tuberculosis. If the infection spreads to the pleura, it may trigger an inflammatory response in the pleural membrane, resulting in pleurisy, accompanied by symptoms such as coughing and chest pain. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as isoniazid-vitamin B6 tablets, rifampicin tablets, and ethambutol hydrochloride capsules for treatment.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes, associated with metabolic and environmental factors, often results in persistently high blood glucose levels, which promote the growth and reproduction of tuberculosis bacteria. Additionally, hyperglycemia impairs overall immune function, particularly cellular immunity, making it easier for tuberculosis bacteria to infect the lungs and spread to the pleura, leading to pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with pleurisy. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may use medications such as insulin glargine injection, insulin aspart injection, and acarbose capsules to manage symptoms.

Patients should maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods such as garlic, spicy hot pot, and wasabi. Adequate rest is also important; overexertion should be avoided to prevent adverse effects on health.