What are the Common Symptoms of Pulmonary Tuberculosis?

Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs and spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Early detection of TB symptoms is crucial to prevent severe health complications and transmission to others.


Understanding Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) occurs when TB bacteria infect the lungs, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and respiratory distress. While some individuals may carry latent TB infection (LTBI) without noticeable symptoms, others develop active TB, which requires immediate medical intervention. Symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats indicate active TB and should never be ignored.


TB is curable with a timely diagnosis and a full course of prescribed antibiotics. However, untreated TB can cause severe lung damage, respiratory failure, and life-threatening complications. A weakened immune system increases the risk of developing active TB, making individuals with pre-existing conditions more vulnerable.


Just like TB, chronic health conditions such as the PCOD problem also require timely diagnosis and consistent medical care. PCOD weakens the body's hormonal balance and metabolism, potentially affecting overall immunity. A compromised immune system makes individuals more prone to infections, including respiratory illnesses like TB. Therefore, women managing PCOD must focus on a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, and timely medical care to prevent additional health complications.


Common Symptoms of Pulmonary Tuberculosis


1. Persistent Cough (More Than Three Weeks)


A chronic cough lasting over three weeks is one of the earliest and most common signs of pulmonary TB. Initially, the cough may be dry, but as the infection progresses, it becomes productive (mucus-filled) and may contain blood (haemoptysis).


If you have a persistent cough that does not improve, seek medical attention immediately.


2. Chest Pain and Shortness of Breath


Pulmonary TB causes inflammation in lung tissues, leading to chest pain and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, TB can result in fluid buildup in the lungs (pleural effusion), further worsening respiratory distress.


3. Unexplained Weight Loss


Sudden and unintentional weight loss is a red flag for TB. The body burns excess calories due to chronic infection, leading to muscle loss and weakness.


4. Fever and Chills


A low-grade fever that persists for weeks without any apparent cause can indicate TB. The body’s immune system fights the infection, causing intermittent fever and chills, particularly in the evening or night.


5. Night Sweats


Profuse sweating at night is a hallmark symptom of TB, even when the room temperature is cool. Night sweats are caused by the body’s response to bacterial infection.


6. Fatigue and Weakness


Tuberculosis causes chronic tiredness, even after adequate rest. Persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, and lack of energy can make it difficult for individuals to carry out daily activities.


7. Loss of Appetite


A reduced desire to eat is common in TB patients, contributing to rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.


8. Swollen Lymph Nodes


TB can spread to lymph nodes, causing painful swelling in the neck, underarms, and groin. Swollen lymph nodes may indicate active TB infection.


9. Blood in Cough (Haemoptysis)


As TB progresses, lung tissue damage can cause blood-streaked sputum or coughing up blood. This is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention.


10. Difficulty Breathing (Advanced TB)


In severe cases, pulmonary TB can lead to progressive lung damage, making it difficult to breathe. If left untreated, lung fibrosis and respiratory failure can occur.


Who is at Risk for Pulmonary Tuberculosis?


Certain groups of people have a higher risk of developing active TB, including:

  • People with weakened immune systems (HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer patients).
  • Elderly individuals with reduced immunity.
  • People living in crowded conditions (slums, prisons, or refugee camps).
  • Healthcare workers exposed to TB patients.
  • Malnourished individuals with poor diet and vitamin deficiencies.
  • People who smoke or consume excessive alcohol, which weakens lung function.

Individuals at high risk should undergo regular TB screening to ensure early detection.

How is Pulmonary Tuberculosis Diagnosed?


1. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) / Mantoux Test


A small injection of tuberculin is placed under the skin. If a raised, red bump appears after 48-72 hours, it indicates TB exposure.


2. Chest X-ray


A chest X-ray helps detect TB-related lung damage, such as nodules, cavitations, or scarring.


3. Sputum Microscopy and Culture


A sputum sample is examined under a microscope to check for TB bacteria.


4. Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) – Blood Test


IGRA is a modern TB blood test that detects TB infection, particularly in latent cases.


5. CT Scan or MRI (For Extrapulmonary TB)


Advanced imaging tests are required if TB spreads beyond the lungs, affecting the brain, bones, or kidneys.


Treatment Options for Pulmonary Tuberculosis


TB is treated with a 6-month antibiotic regimen to eliminate bacterial infection completely.


1. Standard TB Treatment (First-Line Drugs)


Doctors prescribe a combination of four antibiotics for six months:

  • Isoniazid (INH)
  • Rifampicin (RIF)
  • Pyrazinamide (PZA)
  • Ethambutol (EMB)

It is essential to complete the full course to prevent drug resistance.


2. Treatment for Drug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB and XDR-TB)


Some TB cases become resistant to standard drugs, requiring second-line medications, which are longer and more expensive.


3. Supportive Care for TB Patients

  • Good nutrition to boost immunity.
  • Plenty of rest to aid recovery.
  • Avoiding smoking and alcohol, which weaken the lungs.
  • Maintaining hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.

The Importance of Health Insurance for TB Treatment


TB treatment requires long-term medication, regular doctor visits, and sometimes hospitalisation. The best medical insurance policy ensures financial protection and access to quality healthcare.


How Health Insurance Supports TB Treatment?

  • Covers diagnostic tests, hospitalisation, and medications.
  • Offers cashless treatment at network hospitals.
  • Provides critical illness insurance for complex TB cases.

Niva Bupa Health Insurance offers customised health plans, ensuring that patients receive timely treatment without financial burden.


Conclusion


Pulmonary tuberculosis is a serious but curable disease if detected early. Identifying key symptoms such as persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, fever, and night sweats is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Since TB primarily affects the lungs, prolonged breathlessness and chest pain should never be ignored.

A strong immune system plays a vital role in fighting TB, but individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as the PCOD problem, may have a weakened immunity, making them more susceptible to infections. Managing PCOD with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medical supervision can help reduce overall health risks, including TB.

Complete recovery from TB requires strict adherence to medication, proper nutrition, and financial preparedness for medical expenses. Choosing the best plan for medical insurance or critical illness insurance can provide crucial coverage for hospitalization, doctor consultations, and long-term care. A comprehensive health insurance policy, such as those offered by Niva Bupa Health Insurance, ensures you receive the best medical care without financial stress.