10 Tuberculosis Symptoms

By iliriana

Reviewed: Dr. Mera

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Symptom #4: Chest Pain

Many of those suffering from tuberculosis complain about chest pain. This pain is normally explainable by the fact that Mycobacterium tuberculosis enters the human body through the respiratory system, settling into the lungs, where it multiplies. Chest pain usually accompanies persistent coughing, but in advanced cases of tuberculosis, even breathing can cause quite a bit of discomfort and pain in the chest. The severity of chest pain will depend greatly on the progression of this bacterial infection, and from the individual as well. In serious cases, tuberculosis affects the parenchyma (tissue) of the lung, causing cavitations . However, it may also involve the airway. Furthermore, in some cases, it can extend to the serous membranes lining the thorax and enveloping the lungs, also known as pleura. This is a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and it may cause pleurisy or inflammation of the pleura. Pleurisy causes sharp chest pain that worsens during breathing.

Any pain in the chest area can be something serious and you should seek medical attention immediately. Tuberculosis might be causing your chest pain, but it can be related to other diseases as well, such as a heart attack and for this reason getting immediate medical help is necessary as it can save your life.