Rare Symptoms
Occasionally, active TB will spread beyond the lungs into the lymph nodes, kidneys, bones, brain, abdominal cavity, membrane around the heart (pericardium), joints (especially weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees), and reproductive organs. When this happens, it is known as extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
A cough that lasts for more than three weeks A cough that produces green or yellow sputum (phlegm) that may also be streaked with blood Shortness of breath or chest pain Fatigue Loss of appetite and weight loss Night sweats Fever
Symptoms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis depend on the area involved and can include:
Lymph nodes: Lymph nodes that drain the lungs may become large enough to compress the bronchial tubes, causing a cough and possibly a collapsed lung. If bacteria spread to lymph nodes in the neck, it is possible for the nodes to break through the skin and discharge pus.
Kidneys: TB infection of the kidneys may cause fever, back pain, and sometimes blood in the urine. Infection commonly spreads to the bladder, causing painful and frequent urination.
Brain: Tuberculosis that infects the brain, called tuberculous meningitis, is life-threatening. In the United States and other developed countries, tuberculous meningitis most commonly occurs among older people or people with a weakened immune system. Symptoms include fever, constant headache, neck stiffness, nausea, and drowsiness that can lead to coma.
Pericardium: In tuberculous pericarditis, the pericardium thickens and sometimes leaks fluid into the space between the pericardium and the heart. This can weaken the heart, causing swollen neck veins and difficulty breathing.
Genitals: Tuberculosis can also spread to the genitals. In men, genital tuberculosis causes the scrotum to enlarge. In women, it causes pelvic pain and menstrual irregularities and increases the risk of an ectopic pregnancy (in which the egg implants itself outside of the uterus).
Sub-Group Indications
Certain populations need to be especially aware of any symptoms that may indicate TB, as they are at most risk for complications from the illness. These include:
People with HIV: Since the AIDS outbreak in the 1980s, the number of cases of tuberculosis has increased dramatically. HIV infection suppresses the immune system, making it difficult for the body to control TB bacteria. Worldwide, TB is one of the leading causes of death among those with HIV. Pregnant women: Babies born to women with untreated TB may have lower birth weight than is optimal, and may be born with TB themselves. Pregnant women should receive treatment if the likelihood of them having TB is moderate to high.
In addition, anyone with a compromised immune system is at higher risk for active TB infection and related complications.
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