Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s most persistent public health challenges. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 10.8 million people fell ill with TB in 2023 alone. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the infection primarily affects the lungs, but it can also impact other parts of the body such as the spine, kidneys, and brain. Despite being both preventable and fully curable, however, TB continues to claim lives and disrupt communities around the world.
What makes TB particularly dangerous is how easily its symptoms can be brushed aside. A lingering cough or occasional fever may seem harmless at first, but they could be signs of something much more serious.
As one of the country’s leading online drugstores, Southstar Drug is committed to raising awareness about TB while providing access to both prescription treatments and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help ease discomfort. Still, recognizing the early warning signs is crucial. The sooner TB is diagnosed, the more effectively it can be treated.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the key signs of TB that you should never ignore so you can spot them early and take action before it’s too late.
- Persistent Cough
A cough that lasts longer than two to three weeks is one of the most common early signs of tuberculosis. It may start off dry, then gradually produce mucus. In some cases, it may even contain traces of blood. Many people assume it’s just a lingering cold or seasonal allergy, but when a cough persists for weeks, it’s worth taking seriously.
If left untreated, TB can damage the lungs and increase the risk of spreading the infection to others. While warm fluids, cough medicine, and throat lozenges can offer short-term comfort, they won’t be enough to address the root cause. Only proper TB treatment can stop the infection.
- Coughing Up Blood
Coughing up blood, medically known as hemoptysis, is a strong warning sign that the lungs may already be seriously affected. This typically occurs when the infection has progressed and begun to damage lung tissue. Ignoring this symptom can lead to dangerous complications, including internal bleeding. If you notice blood in your cough, seek immediate medical attention.
Do note that coughing up blood can be due to other conditions, like bronchitis, pneumonia, lung cancer, and pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs). Still, even if the cause is not TB, it’s still important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and to receive appropriate treatment.
- Unexplained Weight Loss
If you’ve been losing weight without trying and can’t explain why, tuberculosis could be a possible cause. The infection often suppresses appetite and speeds up metabolism, leading to noticeable weight loss. This isn’t just a cosmetic concern but a sign that the body is under serious strain. If left unaddressed, it can result in malnutrition and further weaken your immune system. While nutrient-rich, high-protein meals may help maintain your strength, only proper treatment can stop the underlying infection and prevent continued weight loss.
- Night Sweats
Frequent night sweats, especially when the room is cool, can also be a sign of TB. These episodes are triggered by the body’s immune response as it fights the infection. Occasional sweating can have many causes, but if it happens night after night, it's worth paying closer attention.
- Fever
A recurring low-grade fever, often more noticeable in the evenings, is another common sign of TB. It reflects the body’s continued effort to fight the infection. While it might be easy to dismiss as a symptom of a minor illness, a fever that keeps returning over several days or weeks shouldn’t be ignored. Over-the-counter fever medications may bring temporary relief, but if the fever persists, make sure to consult a healthcare provider.
- Fatigue and Weakness
Constant fatigue and a general sense of weakness despite adequate rest can be a sign that the body is under stress from an infection like TB. This type of tiredness often interferes with daily activities and may gradually worsen over time. While rest and proper nutrition are important, they won’t be enough to restore energy if the infection is still active. Timely treatment for tuberculosis is essential to start the recovery process and help you regain strength.
- Chest Pain or Shortness of Breath
Chest pain or difficulty breathing can occur when TB affects the lungs more severely. This may result from inflammation or from fluid buildup around the lungs, a condition known as pleural effusion. The discomfort might begin as mild tightness or pain during deep breaths or coughing, but it can worsen without treatment.
Catch Tuberculosis Before It’s Too Late
Tuberculosis is both preventable and treatable, but only if it’s caught early. Paying attention to the warning signs and taking them seriously can make a big difference, not just for your own well-being but also for the people around you. If you or someone you know is showing any of the symptoms mentioned above, talk to a healthcare professional as soon as possible. As you take steps toward better health, you can rely on Southstar Drug to provide trusted access to essential medications and health products that support your recovery.
