Tuberculosis symptoms include a persistent dry or productive (brings up mucus) cough that can sometimes contain blood. Other common signs are chest pain when breathing or coughing, a low-grade fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.
Tuberculosis most often affects the lungs, but it can also involve other parts of the body such as the bones, intestines, or bladder. When this happens, symptoms may include both general signs of illness and symptoms tied to the specific organ affected.
If symptoms suggest possible tuberculosis, it is important to see a primary care provider or a pulmonologist. Appropriate treatment helps reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others and lowers the chance of complications.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of tuberculosis include:
- A cough lasting more than three weeks, which may contain blood;
- Chest pain when breathing or coughing;
- Low-grade fever;
- Night sweats;
- Fatigue;
- Loss of appetite;
- Shortness of breath;
- Unexplained weight loss.
Tuberculosis symptoms may be mild and can last for many months. Symptoms can vary depending on which organ is affected, such as the lungs, bones, intestines, or eyes.
Symptoms quiz
If you suspect you might have tuberculosis, select your symptoms below:
This symptoms quiz is only a tool and should not be used to diagnose any condition or replace an appointment with a healthcare provider.
Pulmonary tuberculosis symptoms
Common pulmonary tuberculosis symptoms include marked fatigue, reduced appetite, night sweats, weight loss, a low-grade fever later in the day, and a persistent cough. The cough may be dry or productive and can sometimes contain blood.
Extrapulmonary tuberculosis symptoms
Extrapulmonary tuberculosis symptoms vary depending on which organ is affected by the bacteria:
- Lymph node tuberculosis (lymph nodes): swollen lymph nodes in the neck, back of the neck, armpits, and/or groin; nodes that feel firm and are not painful; low-grade fever; weight loss; and significant fatigue;
- Pleural tuberculosis (pleura): dry cough; chest pain when breathing; fever; night sweats; shortness of breath; reduced appetite; unexplained weight loss; and a general feeling of being unwell;
- Bone tuberculosis (bones): joint stiffness; difficulty moving the leg or hip joint; and swelling in the affected area;
- Intestinal tuberculosis (intestines): abdominal pain; diarrhea; blood in the stool; weight loss; reduced appetite; night sweats; and low-grade fever;
- Ocular tuberculosis (eyes): red eyes; blurred vision; increased sensitivity to light; eye pain; and headache;
- Brain and meninges: headache; neck stiffness; seizures; and vomiting.
Correctly identifying the type of extrapulmonary tuberculosis is important. Medical evaluation and lab and imaging tests help guide treatment so it can be started promptly and complications can be prevented.
Symptoms in kids
Tuberculosis in children and teens can cause the same symptoms seen in adults. These include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, a cough lasting more than three weeks, and, in some cases, enlarged lymph nodes.
Treatment options
Tuberculosis treatment may be provided free of charge and usually involves taking daily antibiotics, such as rifampin, for a minimum of eight months. If treatment is not followed properly or if the bacteria become resistant, it can take two years or longer to complete.
Health care providers advise patients on the correct duration of therapy and emphasize the importance of taking each dose at the same time every day.