What symptoms can tuberculosis cause?

Latent infection is contained, so most people do not feel ill and do not spread TB through ordinary contact. Symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, reduced appetite, unexplained weight loss, chest pain or swollen glands are more concerning for active TB, depending on which part of the body is affected. They do not establish the diagnosis on their own. Clinicians use the symptom pattern, examination and tests to identify the cause.

If you have a positive TB test but feel well, complete the recommended Tuberculosis Screening follow-up. The clinician may arrange a chest X-ray or other assessment to check for active disease. If latent infection is confirmed, preventive treatment may be offered. Tell the team about HIV Infection, pregnancy, liver problems and medicines because these details affect the safest plan. Keep taking prescribed medicine as directed and report new symptoms.

If symptoms are present, do not label them as latent TB without an examination. Read more about Tuberculosis, Cough and Fever.

Seek prompt medical review for a cough that persists, coughing blood, fever that returns, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, swollen glands, chest pain or breathlessness. Coughing blood or severe breathing difficulty needs urgent care. These signs can reflect active TB, another infection or a non-infectious condition, so timely assessment is the safest response. While on preventive treatment, urgent advice is needed for jaundice, severe rash or repeated vomiting.

Ask whether your symptoms fit active TB, which tests are planned, whether you need a chest X-ray, how HIV or other immune conditions affect evaluation, and what to do while awaiting results. Ask for clear instructions about treatment, household contact and side effects.