Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through the air. In the past, TB was a major cause of death worldwide. However, advancements in medical treatments and the implementation of quarantine measures for TB patients have significantly reduced the prevalence of the disease in the Western world. Each year, the number of cases continues to decline, with approximately 9,000 diagnoses in 2017. Nowadays, tuberculosis mostly affects individuals with weakened immune systems. People who reside or work in long-term care centers, prisons, or healthcare facilities are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. Additionally, individuals who engage in intravenous drug use or have migrated from countries where tuberculosis is more prevalent also face an increased risk of infection.
A Long-Lasting Cough
A long-lasting cough is commonly associated with tuberculosis, however, it is not limited to this particular ailment. If a cough persists for more than three weeks, it is important to seek medical evaluation to eliminate the possibility of tuberculosis. Tuberculosis typically results in a productive cough, meaning that it triggers the expulsion of phlegm that contains the bacteria responsible for the infection. Laboratory tests can be conducted on the phlegm sample to identify the presence of the tuberculosis-causing organism.
Coughing Up Blood: A Possible Symptom of Tuberculosis
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a bacterium that thrives in the lungs, giving rise to the formation of hardened nodules or tubercles that gradually damage the respiratory tissue. As the disease progresses, it can also cause the erosion of blood vessels, resulting in the alarming symptom of coughing up blood. If an individual experiences coughing episodes that bring up blood originating from a source other than the mouth, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention.