Welcome to The Truth About TB

Have you heard of tuberculosis? It is often called TB for short.

Some people know the name, without knowing much about the illness itself. This website should tell you all you need to know about TB. It contains information on symptoms and risks, keeping yourself and your loved ones safe, treatment and information about your rights. If you want to know more, you can ask us a question, or browse the questions we have already been asked.

Read stories of people who have been affected by TB in the UK, and watch them talk about their real life experiences in our video. If you have had TB, feel free to leave your own story – together we can let everyone know the truth about TB!

Imla's TB story

As a fitness trainer, and having an interest in alternative therapies, Imla was probably more focused on the mind and body than most people. But that all changed in 2005, when in just eight months he went from cycling 20 miles a day to walking with a stick. Looking back he says the mental challenge of his illness was equally exhausting.

Arthensia's TB story

When Arthensia overheard her doctor discussing TB symptoms she said, ‘That’s it!’

It had taken a year to gain a diagnosis - Arthensia had been prescribed allergy treatment and had even attempted to treat herself with cold remedies. By this time, she had fluid in her lungs and stomach, and an enlarged liver.

Allen's TB story

Whilst Assistant Head Steward at a golf club, Allen began suffering from a sore throat and a mild chest infection. He thought it was just a case of ‘man flu’. Working in the Club House on a golf course, Allen was used to catching colds from customers. However, it wasn’t until his symptoms remained and intensified that he felt he was experiencing more than just ‘man flu’.

David's TB story

In August 2004, David from North London was diagnosed with drug-resistant TB. At the time he was drinking too much, sleeping rough and not taking care of himself. David was seriously ill. He knew things had to change but he also needed help and support with his living conditions, not just his TB.

Louise's TB story

Despite giving up smoking and a course of antibiotics, Louise's chest infection did not clear. She went to her GP many times with an ongoing cough, weight loss, sweats and a general feeling of tiredness – classic symptoms of TB. Yet it took a visit to A&E, after coughing up blood, before Louise was diagnosed with infectious TB.