How common is cough in tuberculosis?

Pulmonary tuberculosis can irritate and inflame tissue in the lungs, producing a cough that may continue rather than settle like a brief throat irritation. Some people also have phlegm, tiredness, fever, night sweats, reduced appetite, weight loss, chest discomfort, or coughing up blood. The combination and timing matter. A cough by itself cannot confirm tuberculosis, and other infections and lung conditions can cause similar symptoms.

If tuberculosis is possible because of ongoing symptoms, close contact with someone diagnosed with it, or relevant travel or living circumstances, arrange prompt clinical assessment. A clinician may ask about symptoms and exposure and arrange tests such as a chest image or examination of sputum. Follow local advice about reducing close indoor contact until an assessment clarifies whether infection could spread. Do not start or stop tuberculosis medicines without specialist guidance.

Seek prompt medical advice for a persistent cough with fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, marked tiredness, or known exposure. Get emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, blue lips, or more than a small amount of blood in sputum. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or caring for a young child, as this can affect the urgency of assessment.

Could tuberculosis or another lung infection explain my cough? Which tests are needed, and should I limit close contact while waiting? What symptoms mean I should seek emergency care?