The Importance of Understanding TB Treatment Side Effects

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 83 views

A Picture of Hearing Loss and Balance in Patients with Pulmonary TB with the Treatment of Anti-tuberculosis Drugs (OAT) at the Central Hospital of H Adam Malik Medan

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Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious health problem that continues to affect communities worldwide. Various epidemiological studies have shown a tendency to increase the incidence and prevalence of TB in different parts of the world. In 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that Indonesia had successfully reduced the TB ranking to the fifth position, thanks to the success of anti-puberculosis (OAT) treatment. However, long-term administration of OAT can cause side effects, resulting in hearing loss in patients.

The Importance of Understanding TB Treatment Side Effects

TB treatment is a complex process that requires careful management to prevent side effects. While OAT has been successful in reducing TB incidence, it is essential to understand the potential risks associated with long-term treatment. Hearing loss and balance disorders are significant concerns that can impact patients' quality of life. This article aims to describe the picture of hearing loss and balance in TB sufferers who receive OAT treatment at the Central Hospital of H Adam Malik in Medan.

Objective

This article aims to describe the picture of hearing loss and balance in TB sufferers who receive OAT treatment at the Central Hospital of H Adam Malik in Medan.

Method

This research is descriptive, involving 35 TB sufferers who meet inclusion criteria. Sampling was carried out by the consecutive sampling method. Of the total 35 patients, 22 people received TB category 1 treatment with Rifampicin, isoniazid, pirazinamide, and Ethambutol regiments, while 13 others received TB category 2 treatment, which were the same as additional streptomycin. Data is collected through interviews, physical examination of the ear with otoscopy, and other routine ENT examinations. In addition, a pure tone audiometry examination and a balance test using a romberg test and a tandem romberg test were conducted.

Research Design and Methodology

This study employed a descriptive research design to investigate the picture of hearing loss and balance in TB sufferers who receive OAT treatment. The consecutive sampling method was used to select participants, ensuring that all eligible patients were included in the study. Data collection involved a combination of interviews, physical examinations, and specialized tests to assess hearing and balance.

Research Result

The results showed that there were 3 people (33.3%) of the group of TB sufferers category 1 experiencing hearing loss, while in category 2, 6 people (66.7%) experienced the same condition. This difference is significant with the value of P <0.05. In addition, the balance test also shows a significant difference between the two categories. As many as 7 people (100%) of TB sufferers category 2 are tested positive on the romberg test, and 11 people (100%) positive on the tandem romberg test, all of them come from category 2.

Findings and Implications

The study found a significant difference in hearing loss and balance between TB sufferers who received category 1 and category 2 treatment. The results suggest that patients who receive category 2 treatment are more likely to experience hearing loss and balance disorders. These findings have important implications for TB treatment and management, highlighting the need for special monitoring and attention for patients who receive OAT treatment, especially those in a more severe category.

Conclusion

Hearing loss and balance in patients with pulmonary TB undergoing OAT treatment looks higher in category 2 compared to category 1, with significant differences. This finding gives an important picture of the long-term impact of TB treatment, especially on the function of hearing and balance. Therefore, special monitoring and attention is needed for patients who receive OAT treatment, especially for those in a more severe category. Early prevention and treatment efforts to side effects are very important to improve the quality of life of TB patients.

Recommendations and Future Directions

This study highlights the need for further research on the long-term effects of TB treatment on hearing and balance. Additionally, healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with OAT treatment and take steps to prevent and manage side effects. By understanding the impact of TB treatment on patients' quality of life, healthcare providers can develop more effective management strategies to improve patient outcomes.

With the increasing understanding of disorders that may arise due to TB treatment, it is hoped that appropriate steps can be taken in safer management and treatment for sufferers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hearing Loss and Balance in Patients with Pulmonary TB with the Treatment of Anti-tuberculosis Drugs (OAT)

Q: What is the relationship between TB treatment and hearing loss?

A: Long-term administration of OAT can cause side effects, resulting in hearing loss in patients. The study found that patients who received category 2 treatment were more likely to experience hearing loss.

Q: What are the symptoms of hearing loss in TB patients?

A: The symptoms of hearing loss in TB patients may include difficulty hearing, ringing in the ears, and feeling of fullness in the ears. In severe cases, hearing loss can be permanent.

Q: How can hearing loss be prevented in TB patients?

A: Early prevention and treatment efforts to side effects are very important to improve the quality of life of TB patients. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with OAT treatment and take steps to prevent and manage side effects.

Q: What is the role of balance tests in TB patients?

A: Balance tests, such as the romberg test and the tandem romberg test, can help identify patients who are at risk of balance disorders. These tests can be used to monitor patients' balance and detect any changes over time.

Q: What are the implications of this study for TB treatment and management?

A: The study highlights the need for special monitoring and attention for patients who receive OAT treatment, especially those in a more severe category. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with OAT treatment and take steps to prevent and manage side effects.

Q: What are the next steps for further research on this topic?

A: Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of TB treatment on hearing and balance. Studies should focus on developing more effective management strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Q: How can healthcare providers improve patient outcomes in TB treatment?

A: Healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes in TB treatment by being aware of the potential risks associated with OAT treatment and taking steps to prevent and manage side effects. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments can also help identify patients who are at risk of hearing loss and balance disorders.

Q: What is the importance of early detection and treatment of hearing loss and balance disorders in TB patients?

A: Early detection and treatment of hearing loss and balance disorders in TB patients can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. It is essential to identify patients who are at risk of these disorders and take steps to prevent and manage them.

Q: How can patients and their families contribute to the management of TB treatment?

A: Patients and their families can contribute to the management of TB treatment by being aware of the potential risks associated with OAT treatment and taking steps to prevent and manage side effects. Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring can also help identify patients who are at risk of hearing loss and balance disorders.

Q: What are the long-term implications of hearing loss and balance disorders in TB patients?

A: The long-term implications of hearing loss and balance disorders in TB patients can be significant. Patients may experience permanent hearing loss, balance disorders, and decreased quality of life. It is essential to identify patients who are at risk of these disorders and take steps to prevent and manage them.