Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading killers of communicable diseases. It is caused by a bacterial infection that can affect different parts of the body, including the lungs, lymph nodes, and bones. Though most commonly known as a lung disease, very few people are aware that TB can affect any part of the body. When a healthy person comes in contact with a person whose lungs are infected, the healthy person may contract the disease through the air droplets spread in the air by coughing, sneezing, etc.

Once the bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can travel to any part of the body, stay dormant for a while and then start showing symptoms. On diagnosis of the disease, the infection of Tuberculosis is treated with a combination of antibiotics over several months. It is pertinent that the patient completes the course of antibiotics, otherwise, the infection can become chronic and turn into drug resistant tuberculosis. Usually, people don’t believe that they have TB or more so pulmonary TB as this is also caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M tuberculosis). Now to help people identify they have pulmonary TB, here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate they have TB:

1. Persistent cough: A cough that lasts for more than three weeks is one of the most common symptoms of TB. When someone has TB, the bacteria typically infect the lungs, causing inflammation and damage to the lung tissue. This can lead to coughing as the body tries to clear the airways of mucus and debris. The cough may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood or phlegm. However, it’s important to note that a persistent cough can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s always a good idea to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation if you notice these symptoms.

2. Chest pain: Chest pain can be a symptom of TB, particularly when it is accompanied by coughing or breathing difficulties. The pain may be sharp or dull, and it may worsen with deep breathing or coughing. Chest pain is usually caused by the inflammation and the damage caused to the lung tissue, which can occur as a result of the TB infection. If you are having persistent chest pain, then it could be one of the signs to immediately see a pulmonologist and get yourself tested for TB or any other conditions it might be.

3. Fatigue and weakness: TB can cause general fatigue and weakness. You may feel tired all the time, even after getting enough rest. When someone has TB, the body’s immune system responds to the infection by producing inflammation, which can cause the body to feel tired and weak. The inflammation can also cause the body to use more energy than usual, which can contribute to feelings of fatigue. In addition, if the TB infection is causing damage to the lungs, it can be difficult for the body to get enough oxygen, which can also contribute to feelings of fatigue and weakness.

4. Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of TB. You may notice that you are losing weight without trying for this, and your appetite may decrease. Inflammation caused by TB can cause a loss of appetite and a decrease in food intake. The body may use more energy than usual to fight the infection, which can also contribute to weight loss. TB can also increase the body’s need for energy, which can contribute to weight loss.

5. Night sweats: Night sweats are common in people with TB. You may wake up feeling drenched in sweat, even if the room is not too hot.

It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by many different conditions, and not everyone with TB will experience all of them. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation, diagnosis and treatment.

What we need to understand is that TB is completely curable provided the patient takes the right drugs for the right duration without any interruption. One thing we need to bear in mind is that this is not an acute disease which is treated in a week or two. This is a severe disease, which needs adherence to drugs.