Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Specific Symptoms

If the body's resistance is low because of aging, malnutrition, infections such as HIV, or other reasons, the bacteria may break out of hiding and cause active tuberculosis.
 
In these cases, early symptoms of tuberculosis can include:
 
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Night sweats
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Loss of appetite.
     
Early tuberculosis symptoms may be vague, however, and go unnoticed by the affected person.
 
The more specific symptoms may include:
 
  • Cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer
  • Pain in the chest
  • Coughing up blood or sputum.
     
Tuberculosis symptoms involving areas other than the lungs vary, depending upon the organ or area affected.
 

Summary of the Symptoms of Tuberculosis

These possible symptoms of tuberculosis are not sure signs of the disease. Other health problems can also cause these symptoms. Anyone with possible tuberculosis symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible, so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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