Can I return to normal work after being discharged from the hospital for tuberculosis?

Whether a patient can return to work after discharge from treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis depends on the individual condition. Patients with negative sputum smear results, stable symptoms, and approval from their doctor may gradually resume work. However, those with positive sputum smears, uncontrolled symptoms, or explicit medical advice against working should continue resting and receiving treatment.

Negative sputum smear is an important prerequisite for returning to work, as these patients have very low infectivity. If symptoms such as cough and low-grade fever have significantly improved, and the job involves moderate workload in a well-ventilated environment, patients may return to work under medical guidance. While working, they should wear masks, avoid close contact with others, ensure adequate rest, and prevent overexertion.

Patients with positive sputum smears are highly infectious. Even after discharge, they must continue isolation and treatment and should not return to work immediately. Some patients may have converted to sputum-negative but still experience significant fatigue, hemoptysis, or other symptoms, indicating incomplete recovery. Returning to work prematurely may lead to relapse; thus, work should only be considered after symptoms have completely resolved and physical strength has been restored.

Patients must strictly follow medical instructions for medication and must not discontinue or reduce dosage without consultation. Maintain good ventilation in living and working environments, practice proper hygiene, and refrain from spitting in public. A diet rich in high-quality protein and vitamins is recommended to strengthen immunity, along with regular follow-up visits to monitor disease progression.