Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe respiratory illness primarily affecting the lungs. A specific type of bacteria causes it. This contagious disease can spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or sings, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air. Subsequently, when others inhale these droplets, the bacteria find their way into the lungs, spreading the infection. So, one needs to keep an eye on TB symptoms.
Fortunately, Tuberculosis can be treated with antibiotics. However, it is essential to note that some strains of the bacteria have become resistant to traditional treatments.
In this blog, we will explore the various symptoms of Tuberculosis to enable early detection and prompt medical intervention.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
TB presents different symptoms depending on the stage of the infection. There are three stages of Tuberculosis — Primary, Latent, and Active. Let us discuss the symptoms of TB disease based on the stage of the illness.
-
Primary TB infection:
It is the first stage of Tuberculosis. It often has no symptoms, but some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms like
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue
- Cough
-
Latent TB infection:
It is the second stage of Tuberculosis. It has no apparent symptoms as the immune system forms a barrier around the lung tissue containing the TB germs.
-
Active TB disease in the lungs:
Active TB disease manifests when the immune system fails to control the infection. The symptoms of active TB disease in the lungs typically emerge slowly over a few weeks and may include the following:
- Persistent cough
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Chest pain
- Pain while breathing or coughing
- Fever
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- A general feeling of unwellness
-
Active TB disease outside the lungs:
TB infection can spread beyond the lungs, resulting in Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis.
Symptoms vary based on the affected body part and may include the following.
- Fever
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- General malaise
- Localised pain
Common sites for active TB disease outside the lungs:
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Fluid enveloping the spinal cord and brain
- Heart muscles
- Genitals
- Lymph nodes
- Bones and joints
- Skin
- Walls of blood vessels
- Voice box (larynx)
-
Active TB disease in children:
Symptoms vary based on age and include the following
- Teenagers: Symptoms similar to adults
- 1- to 12-year-olds: Persistent fever and weight loss
- Infants: Poor weight gain and symptoms related to inflammation in the fluid around the brain or spinal cord, such as:
- Sluggishness
- Increased fussiness
- Vomiting
- Poor feeding
- Bulging soft spot on the head
- Diminished reflexes
Recognising these TB symptoms is crucial for early detection and prompt medical intervention to prevent the spread of TB and ensure effective treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment is important. Additionally, having comprehensive health insurance can help cover the costs of medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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