Tuberculosis (TB): Practical Guide to Symptoms, Testing & Treatment

TB still affects millions worldwide, but a clear, practical approach makes it easier to recognize and treat. This page explains what TB is, how to check for it, common treatments, and simple prevention steps you can use today.

What is TB and key symptoms

TB is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually attacks the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can affect other organs. People can have latent TB — bacteria are present but inactive and not contagious — or active TB, which causes symptoms and can spread to others.

A persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, often with phlegm or blood. Unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fever. Fatigue and chest pain when breathing or coughing. If you notice these signs, especially after travel or close contact with someone who has TB, get evaluated.

TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close, prolonged contact in poorly ventilated spaces raises risk. People with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV or on immunosuppressive drugs, and household contacts of someone with active TB are at higher risk.

Testing, treatment and prevention

Common tests include the tuberculin skin test (TST) and interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) which detect immune response to TB. Chest X-rays help spot lung changes. Sputum tests — smear, culture, and molecular tests like GeneXpert — confirm active TB and check drug resistance. Accurate diagnosis matters because TB needs specific drugs, not the usual antibiotics.

Standard TB treatment uses a combination of drugs — typically isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide — for at least six months. Shorter packed regimens exist for some forms, but you must finish the full course. Stopping early raises the risk of treatment failure and drug resistance. Rifampicin interacts with many medications and can affect liver function; doctors monitor blood tests during therapy.

If the bacteria resist first-line drugs, treatment becomes longer, more complex, and relies on second-line agents. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB require specialist care and often longer monitoring.

Improve ventilation and avoid crowded indoor spaces. Cover coughs, and wear a mask if you have active TB until a provider clears you. BCG vaccine offers protection mainly in children and in specific countries. Test and treat household contacts when someone has active TB.

See a provider if you have a cough over two weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or if you were exposed to TB. Don’t try standard antibiotics at home — they won’t cure TB and could delay proper care.

If you’re close to someone with TB ask about preventive treatment — your doctor may recommend preventive antibiotics to stop latent infection turning active, especially for children and people with weak immune systems. Act early now.

Want to read more about antibiotics, TB-related drugs, or safe medicine use? Check our related guides for clear, practical info.