TB Symptoms

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also infect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, bones, and brain. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets containing the bacteria. When a person inhales these droplets, they can become infected with TB.

Symptoms of TB can vary depending on the stage of the infection and the part of the body affected. Here are some of the common symptoms of TB:

Cough: A persistent cough that lasts for more than two weeks is a common symptom of TB. The cough may produce sputum or phlegm, which can be bloody or have a bad odor.

Chest pain: Chest pain can occur due to the inflammation caused by TB infection in the lungs. The pain may be sharp or dull and may worsen with deep breathing or coughing.

Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is another common symptom of TB. This can be due to the body's immune system fighting the infection.

Fever: A low-grade fever is a common symptom of TB. The fever may come and go and can be accompanied by night sweats.

Loss of appetite: TB can cause a loss of appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.

Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath can occur due to the inflammation caused by TB infection in the lungs. This can make it difficult to breathe, especially during physical activity.

Swollen lymph nodes: TB can cause swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, which can be felt as lumps under the skin.

Joint pain: TB can also infect the joints, causing pain and stiffness.

Abdominal pain: TB can infect the abdomen, causing pain and discomfort.

Headache: TB can infect the brain, causing headaches and other neurological symptoms.

It's important to note that some people with TB may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages of the infection. This is known as latent TB infection and can be detected through a skin or blood test. However, latent TB infection can progress to active TB disease if left untreated.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, especially if they persist for more than two weeks, it's important to see a healthcare provider. TB can be treated with antibiotics, but early detection is important to prevent the spread of the infection and ensure successful treatment.