Which are the symptoms of Tuberculosis?

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also target other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of tuberculosis can vary depending on the stage of the infection and the part of the body affected. The most common symptoms include:

• Persistent Cough: A cough that lasts for more than three weeks is a common symptom of TB. It may produce phlegm or blood.


• Fever: A low-grade fever, usually in the afternoon or evening, is often associated with TB.


• Night Sweats: Profuse sweating, particularly during sleep, is a classic symptom of TB.


• Unintentional Weight Loss: TB can cause a significant and unexplained weight loss.


• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak even after adequate rest is another common symptom.


• Loss of Appetite: TB can lead to a decreased desire to eat, resulting in a loss of appetite.

Advanced Symptoms

In advanced stages of tuberculosis, the infection can spread beyond the lungs and affect other organs. Additional symptoms may include:

• Chest Pain: Sharp or dull pain in the chest may occur, especially during deep breathing or coughing.


• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can be a result of lung damage caused by TB.


• Swollen Lymph Nodes: TB can cause the lymph nodes to become enlarged, particularly in the neck or armpits.


• Joint Pain: Tuberculosis arthritis can lead to pain and swelling in the joints.


• Headaches: If TB affects the brain, it can cause persistent headaches and other neurological symptoms.


• Confusion or Disorientation: In rare cases, TB can lead to mental changes and confusion.

Latent TB Infection

Some individuals may have a latent TB infection, which means they have the bacteria in their body but do not experience any symptoms. However, they can still develop active TB in the future if their immune system becomes weakened.

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks. A healthcare professional can perform diagnostic tests, such as a chest X-ray, sputum culture, or tuberculin skin test, to confirm the presence of tuberculosis.