How to Recognize the Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is spread through the air like the common cold, and only a small number of the germs need be inhaled by a person to be infected. If not treated properly, tuberculosis can cause death. Symptoms of tuberculosis often closely resemble lung cancer or pneumonia. People with latent tuberculosis do not have symptoms and cannot spread the disease to others, but it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have come in contact with someone infected by tuberculosis. Read on to learn how to recognize the symptoms of tuberculosis.

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of tuberculosis. Symptoms include a cough with thick and sometimes bloody mucus lasting more than two weeks, elevated heartbeat, fever, chills, night sweats, a swollen neck, fatigue, loss of appetite and unusual weight loss.

2. Know that tuberculosis most commonly affects the lungs and therefore coughing is usually the initial symptom. Tuberculosis that occurs in other areas of the body besides the lungs may cause varying symptoms.

3. Make an appointment with your primary care provider if you think you are displaying any symptoms of tuberculosis. Indicate that the appointment is urgent when calling. It is important to seek immediate medical assistance in order for tuberculosis to be treated and cured.

4. Be aware that virtually all symptoms of tuberculosis can be confused with other diseases and are not always easy to recognize. It is important to seek medical attention as early as possible.

5. Know that symptoms often begin gradually and develop over an extended period of time of weeks or even months. Often, symptoms do not show up until the disease has advanced. People often have one or two mild symptoms of the disease and do not immediately recognize they have been infected.

6. Be aware that there are two types of tuberculosis infection. The first type is called latent tuberculosis and does not cause any symptoms and is not contagious. The second is active tuberculosis which causes symptoms and can be spread to other people. Even when no symptoms are displayed, the disease can still be present and causing damage to the body.

Tips & Warnings

• The people most at risk are infants, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. People with HIV have increased risk of developing tuberculosis, and tuberculosis is a leading cause of death among people who are HIV-positive.

• Seek medical assistance if you have been exposed to tuberculosis or experience symptoms, symptoms persist despite treatment or if new symptoms develop, including indications that complications are developing.