Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of TB disease depend on where in the body the TB bacteria are growing. TB bacteria usually grow in the lungs (pulmonary TB). TB disease in the lungs may cause symptoms such as
- a bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer
- pain in the chest
- coughing up blood or sputum (phlegm from deep inside the lungs)
Other symptoms of TB disease are
- weakness or fatigue
- weight loss
- no appetite
- chills
- fever
- sweating at night
Symptoms of TB disease in other parts of the body depend on the area affected.
People who have latent TB infection do not feel sick, do not have any symptoms, and cannot spread TB to others.
Related Links
For Patients
- TB - General Information (Fact sheet)
- Questions and Answers About TB (Booklet)
- Learn the Signs and Symptoms of TB Disease (CDC Web feature)
- State TB Control Offices
For Health Care Providers
- TB - General Information (Fact sheet)
- TB Guidelines
- Page last reviewed: March 17, 2016
- Page last updated: March 17, 2016
- Content source: