What are the Symptoms of TB Without a Cough?
Even without a cough, tuberculosis (TB) can manifest through several key symptoms including fatigue, chills, weight loss, loss of appetite, sweating, and fever.
Tuberculosis is commonly associated with a persistent cough, especially when it affects the lungs. However, TB can infect other parts of the body, such as the bones or spine, leading to a different set of symptoms where a cough may not be present. Recognizing these non-cough symptoms is vital for identifying the infection.
Key Symptoms of TB Without a Cough
Based on available information, individuals with TB who do not experience a cough may still exhibit several distinct signs:
- Fatigue: A pervasive feeling of tiredness and a lack of energy, often disproportionate to activity levels.
- Chills: Episodes of feeling cold, accompanied by shivering.
- Weight Loss: An unexplained decrease in body weight without intentional dieting.
- Loss of Appetite: A significant reduction in the desire to eat, which contributes to weight loss.
- Sweating: Often notable as night sweats, where a person wakes up drenched in perspiration.
- Fever: An elevated body temperature, which can be low-grade and persistent.
When Symptoms Typically Appear
It's important to note that the onset and recognition of TB symptoms can vary significantly. For instance, in cases of spinal (or bone) tuberculosis, a person may not even be aware of the infection for a considerable period after it starts. Generally, most individuals do not experience noticeable symptoms until the TB infection is advanced.
Summary of Non-Cough TB Symptoms
The following table summarizes the primary symptoms of TB that can occur without a cough:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Fatigue | Persistent feeling of tiredness and low energy |
| Chills | Sudden feelings of coldness and shivering |
| Weight Loss | Unexplained reduction in body mass |
| Loss of Appetite | Decreased desire or hunger for food |
| Sweating | Especially noticeable as night sweats |
| Fever | Elevated body temperature |
