What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?

Pulmonary tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. Its typical symptoms can be summarized as follows: persistent cough lasting for weeks or longer, especially cough accompanied by sputum, which may contain blood streaks or appear purulent, indicating infection or worsening of the lesion; patients often feel physically weak, easily fatigued, and experience low-grade fever or night sweats, meaning excessive sweating during sleep or upon waking; significant weight loss and loss of appetite, which result from the consumption of body nutrients and the impact of tuberculosis bacteria on the digestive system; some patients may also experience chest pain, particularly exacerbated during deep breathing or coughing, as well as difficulty breathing. Additionally, female patients might present with endocrine disorders such as menstrual irregularities. Early diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis are crucial to prevent disease progression and transmission.