What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?

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Symptoms of Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Overview

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. Understanding the symptoms of TB is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This article synthesizes findings from multiple research studies to provide a detailed overview of the symptoms associated with TB.

Pulmonary Tuberculosis Symptoms

Chronic Cough and Respiratory Issues

One of the most common symptoms of pulmonary TB is a persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks. This cough may be accompanied by the production of sputum and, in some cases, haemoptysis (coughing up blood) . Patients may also experience chest pain and breathlessness as the disease progresses .

Systemic Symptoms

Pulmonary TB often presents with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and chills. These symptoms are indicative of the body's immune response to the infection . Additionally, patients frequently report experiencing weakness or fatigue, which can significantly impact their daily activities .

Weight Loss and Anorexia

Unintentional weight loss and a loss of appetite are also common symptoms of TB. These symptoms contribute to the overall wasting and cachexia observed in advanced stages of the disease .

Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis Symptoms

Urogenital Tuberculosis

Extrapulmonary TB can affect various organs, including the urogenital system. Symptoms of urogenital TB include abdominal pain, menstrual irregularities, and urinary issues such as obstructive uropathy and reduced bladder capacity. Advanced cases may lead to renal failure and other severe complications.

Gastrointestinal Tuberculosis

Gastric TB, although rare, presents with upper abdominal discomfort or pain. Patients may also exhibit systemic symptoms like fatigue, low fever, night sweats, and weight loss, similar to those seen in pulmonary TB.

Lymphatic and Bone Involvement

In cases where TB affects the lymph nodes or bones, symptoms can include enlarged lymph nodes, pain, and fever. These manifestations are often non-specific, making diagnosis challenging.

Complications and Severe Manifestations

Irreversible Lung Damage

In severe cases, TB can lead to irreversible lung damage, which may result in chronic respiratory issues and, ultimately, death if left untreated.

Systemic Complications

TB is also associated with systemic complications such as hyponatremia and glucose intolerance. These complications arise due to the body's prolonged inflammatory response to the infection.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis presents with a wide range of symptoms that can vary depending on the affected organs. Pulmonary TB commonly manifests as a chronic cough, chest pain, and systemic symptoms like fever and weight loss. Extrapulmonary TB can affect various organs, leading to diverse symptoms such as abdominal pain, urinary issues, and lymph node enlargement. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and effective treatment, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the spread of this infectious disease.