Coughing is a very common complaint for many people. Most often, it's caused by a cold, allergies, or a mild infection that resolves on its own. However, what if the cough doesn't improve for weeks?
Don't take it lightly. A persistent cough could be a sign of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), a contagious infectious disease that remains a major health problem in Indonesia. Because the symptoms often resemble a common cough, many TB sufferers delay seeking medical attention. As a result, the disease worsens and the risk of transmission to family members increases. So, what's the difference between a common cough and a cough caused by TB?
Cough Duration: The Key Differentiator
A common cough due to a cold or viral infection generally gets better within a few days to about a week.
In contrast, coughs due to TB tend to:
- It goes on continuously,
- Often does not improve with regular cough medicine
- Staying for more than 2 weeks,
- Or any form of cough regardless of duration accompanied by one or more additional symptoms such as: unexplained weight loss/no weight gain/decreased appetite, fever that comes and goes without any clear cause, or night sweats without activity.
If you have a cough that doesn't go away after two weeks, especially without a clear cause, this condition needs to be checked further.
TB Symptoms Are Not Just Coughing (Additional Symptoms)
A common cough is usually accompanied by a runny nose, sore throat, or mild fever that quickly improves after rest.
In TB, symptoms are often more systemic because the infection persists for a long time in the body. Some signs to watch out for include:
- Recurrent mild fever
The fever is usually not very high, but often occurs especially in the afternoon or evening.
- Excessive night sweats
Sufferers can sweat a lot while sleeping or at night even though the room is not hot.
- Losing weight for no apparent reason
Decreased appetite and weight loss slowly without a diet program.
- Body gets tired easily
Light activities feel more tiring than usual.
Coughing up blood and chest pain
In more advanced conditions, TB bacteria can damage lung tissue.
As a result, sufferers may experience:
- Persistent cough with phlegm,
- Stool mixed with blood or blood spots,
- Chest pain when breathing or coughing,
- Until shortness of breath.
Coughing up blood is not a symptom of the common flu and should be checked immediately.
Why Should You Act Immediately?
TB is caused by the Tuberculosis bacteria which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
Without proper treatment:
- TB infection can permanently damage the lungs,
- Spreads to other organs such as bones, brain and kidneys,
- Even causing death.
No less important, one person with active TB can transmit the disease to people around them, especially family members.
The good news is that TB can be cured with regular and complete treatment.
Don't Wait Until It's Serious
Many people delay getting tested, thinking their cough is just a common cold. However, the sooner TB is detected, the greater the chance of recovery and the lower the risk of transmission. Recognizing symptoms early not only protects yourself but also the health of your family and those around you.
Consult immediately at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital!
Don't second-guess your health. An accurate diagnosis through a physical examination, sputum test, and chest (lung) X-ray is essential to confirm your condition.
If you or a family member has a cough that lasts for more than two weeks and is accompanied by the symptoms mentioned above, consult a pulmonary specialist at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital immediately. We are supported by a team of expert medical professionals and comprehensive diagnostic facilities to provide prompt and appropriate treatment.
Your health is your best investment. Detect TB early now for a healthier tomorrow!
This article was written by Dr. Ikhsan Budi, Sp.P (Pulmonary & Respiratory Specialist at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).