Night Sweats, Weight Loss, Fatigue & Hemoptysis—Know What to Watch For

When most people hear the term pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), they immediately think of a chronic cough. While persistent coughing is indeed one of the most recognizable symptoms, pulmonary TB presents a wide range of warning signs that are often overlooked. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial not only for effective treatment but also for preventing the spread of tuberculosis infection, which remains a major public health concern in many parts of the world.

In this blog, we’ll explore the hidden signs and symptoms of pulmonary TB, why they matter, and what you should do if you suspect you or someone you know might be at risk. By increasing awareness, we can improve early diagnosis, lung health, and TB prevention.

What is Pulmonary Tuberculosis?

Pulmonary TB is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which primarily affects the lungs. It spreads through the airborne transmission of respiratory droplets from a person with active TB.

While TB is preventable and treatable, it can become life-threatening if left undiagnosed. Early detection is key—but that’s only possible if people recognize all the symptoms, not just the cough.

Early Symptoms of Pulmonary TB: What to Watch For

1. Persistent Cough (Lasting More Than 2 Weeks)

  • A dry or productive cough is usually the first symptom.

  • It may gradually worsen and become chronic and painful.

  • Often mistaken for a cold, bronchitis, or allergy.

2. Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis)

  • One of the hallmark symptoms of advanced TB.

  • Caused by damage to lung tissue or blood vessels.

  • Often accompanies a deep, hacking cough.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

  • TB affects your metabolism, leading to rapid weight loss.

  • This can occur even with normal food intake.

  • May be mistaken for malnutrition or other chronic illnesses.

4. Night Sweats

  • Profuse sweating during sleep is a common but often ignored symptom.

  • Night sweats with fever may signal an ongoing lung infection.

  • Often confused with hormonal changes or environmental heat.

5. Fever and Chills

  • Recurrent low-grade fevers, especially in the evening.

  • Often accompanied by body aches and chills.

  • Unlike the flu, TB fevers can last for weeks or months.

6. Chronic Fatigue and Weakness

  • Ongoing infection weakens the immune system, causing constant tiredness.

  • May affect work, focus, and daily activities.

  • Often confused with lifestyle stress or anemia.

7. Chest Pain and Difficulty Breathing

  • Pain during deep breaths, coughing, or laughing.

  • TB can cause pleurisy (inflammation of the lung lining).

  • Some may experience shortness of breath as lung function deteriorates.

Why Early Detection of Pulmonary TB Matters

  • TB is highly contagious, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.

  • Delayed diagnosis increases the risk of spreading the disease.

  • Early treatment can prevent lung damage and reduce the risk of drug-resistant TB.

  • People with weakened immunity (HIV, diabetes, malnutrition) are especially vulnerable.

Who is at Risk of Pulmonary TB?

  • People living in overcrowded conditions

  • Healthcare workers regularly exposed to infected patients

  • People with malnutrition, diabetes, or chronic lung disease

  • Individuals with a history of TB exposure or travel to high TB-burden areas

How is Pulmonary TB Diagnosed?

  • Sputum Test: Detects the TB bacteria in coughed-up mucus.

  • Chest X-ray: Shows lung damage, cavities, or fluid buildup.

  • Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) or Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) for latent TB.

Treatment and Prevention of Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Standard TB Treatment

  • A 6-month course of anti-TB drugs (HRZE: Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol).

  • Directly Observed Treatment (DOTS) is often used for better compliance.

  • Skipping doses or incomplete treatment can lead to multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB).

TB Prevention Tips

  • Cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing.

  • Wear a mask in high-risk or healthcare environments.

  • Ensure proper ventilation in homes and workplaces.

  • Get tested if you are exposed to someone with active TB.

  • Vaccinate infants with the BCG vaccine to reduce the risk of severe childhood TB.

Final Thoughts: Look Beyond the Cough

On the surface, pulmonary tuberculosis might look like a persistent cough, but the deeper warning signs tell a more serious story. Weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, chest pain, and hemoptysis are not to be ignored.

Raising awareness about the full spectrum of pulmonary TB symptoms is vital to ensure timely diagnosis, proper treatment, and reduced transmission.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait—consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Share this blog to spread awareness about TB and help save lives.