Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks without covering their mouth.
Before the discovery of antibiotics, TB was a leading cause of death worldwide. Although it’s less common today in the United States, it’s still a significant public health problem in other parts of the world.
What Are the Warning Signs of Tuberculosis?
TB can be an insidious disease, often progressing slowly over time. Some people may not experience symptoms until the infection has advanced, making the disease more dangerous to others. The following are some of the common symptoms of TB:.
1. Cough
A persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks is the most prominent symptom of TB. The cough may start mildly but progressively worsens over time. It usually produces sputum, a thick, yellowish-green, and sometimes bloody substance.
2. Night Sweats
Night sweats are episodes of sweating that occur during the night, even in cold temperatures. They’re often so severe that they can soak clothes and sheets. Although many conditions can cause night sweats, TB is one common cause.
3. Chest Pain
Chest pain may occur when breathing or coughing, and it usually occurs on one side of the chest. The pain may worsen over time and cause difficulty breathing.
4. Fever
Fever is a common symptom of TB. It usually starts mild but may become severe over time. A high fever, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as night sweats, is a warning sign that something could be wrong.
5. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Many people with TB experience a loss of appetite. That, in turn, leads to significant weight loss, making it one of the hallmarks of this infection. This symptom tends to be more prevalent in advanced stages of the disease.
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6. Fatigue
Many people with TB experience fatigue and feel tired all the time. They may have no energy and sleep more than usual.
7. Difficulty Breathing
If TB affects the lungs, it may cause difficulty breathing. It may also cause wheezing, which is a whistling sound when breathing. Severe shortness of breath could indicate a severe case of TB.
8. Weakness and Malaise
Many people with TB experience a feeling of general discomfort or malaise. They may feel weak and have no energy to carry out their daily activities.
9. Hemoptysis
Hemoptysis is the coughing up of blood or blood-stained sputum. Although it’s not a common symptom of TB, it’s a severe warning sign that the infection has progressed significantly.
10. Swollen Lymph Nodes
TB can cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck or other parts of the body. Although lymph nodes usually occur near the infection site, they can appear anywhere in the body where the bacteria have spread.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Early detection and treatment can help you avoid serious health complications, including death.
Conclusion
TB is a dangerous bacterial infection that can damage the lungs and other organs if left untreated. If you suspect you have TB or have been exposed to someone with the disease, seek medical help immediately.
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are at higher risk of developing TB, so they should take extra precautions to prevent infection.
