Tuberculosis, or TB, kills nearly 2 million people worldwide each year, according to the MayoClinic.com. It is a serious disease that is caused by a bacteria that is present in tiny droplets in the air, which is how it spreads from person to person. TB skin tests can detect if the bacteria is present, and the disease can be cured through a combination of medications taken for several months. Initial signs and symptoms of active TB depend on where the bacteria is growing, but if the disease is in the latent form no symptoms will be present.
Cough
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the lungs are most commonly affected by TB causing a cough. The cough may be present for three weeks or longer and may be accompanied with chest pain upon coughing. Coughing up phlegm, or sputum, from inside the lungs may also occur. Coughing up blood is possible and should be discussed with a medical professional immediately.
Fatigue
Weakness or fatigue is another common initial symptom of active TB, according to the CDC. As the bacteria grows, the body tries to fight it and you may get worn out faster. A loss of appetite may also be present, with unintentional weight loss if food and beverage intake falls below normal.
Fever
Fever may also be a symptom of active TB, according to the MayoClinic.com. The fever may be accompanied with the chills or night sweats. If the fever persists for longer than a few days, discuss the possibility of TB with your doctor, especially if contact with another person with TB has occurred.
