Types of Tuberculosis and Their Symptoms
Explore the different types of Tuberculosis (TB), including latent, active (pulmonary & extrapulmonary), and drug-resistant forms. Understand the unique symptoms associated with each type and the critical importance of early diagnosis for effective treatment and management.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS
Last updated on 19th Aug, 2025
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious but treatable infection caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body. Understanding the different types of TB and their symptoms is crucial for early detection and effective treatment.
This article will help you recognize the signs of TB, learn about its various forms, and know when to seek medical help.
What is Tuberculosis (TB)
TB is an infectious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. While it mainly targets the lungs (pulmonary TB), it can also affect other organs (extrapulmonary TB). Some people have latent TB, meaning the bacteria are inactive and don’t cause symptoms, while others develop active TB, which makes them sick and contagious.
Types of Tuberculosis and Their Symptoms
Types of tuberculosis and their symptoms are:
1. Pulmonary Tuberculosis (Lung TB)
This is the most common form of TB, affecting the lungs.
Symptoms:
- Persistent cough (lasting more than 3 weeks)
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unintentional weight loss
If untreated, pulmonary TB can cause severe lung damage and spread to others.
2. Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis (TB Outside the Lungs)
TB can spread to other organs through the bloodstream. Common types include:
A. Lymph Node TB (Tuberculous Lymphadenitis)
Affects lymph nodes, especially in the neck.
Symptoms:
- Painless swelling of lymph nodes
- Fever
- Fatigue
Consult Top Specialists
B. Bone and Joint TB (Skeletal TB)
Commonly affects the spine (Pott’s disease), hips, or knees.
Symptoms:
- Back pain or joint pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Difficulty moving
C. Miliary TB (Disseminated TB)
A severe form where bacteria spread throughout the body via the bloodstream.
Symptoms:
- High fever
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Cough and breathing difficulties
- Enlarged liver or spleen
D. TB Meningitis (Brain TB)
Affects the membranes around the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms:
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion or seizures
E. Genitourinary TB (Kidney or Bladder TB)
Affects the kidneys, bladder, or reproductive organs.
Symptoms:
- Painful urination
- Blood in urine
- Frequent urination
- Lower back pain
F. Abdominal TB (Gut TB)
Affects the intestines, liver, or peritoneum (abdominal lining).
Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Weight loss
3. Latent TB Infection (Inactive TB)
In this case, the bacteria remain dormant in the body without causing symptoms. The person is not contagious but can develop active TB later if their immune system weakens.
Symptoms: None, but a TB test (like Mantoux or IGRA) can detect it.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- A cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and night sweats
- Persistent pain in any part of the body
Consult a doctor immediately, especially if you’ve been in close contact with a TB patient.
How is TB Diagnosed?
Doctors use different tests to confirm TB:
- Sputum test (for pulmonary TB)
- Chest X-ray or CT scan
- TB skin test (Mantoux test)
- Blood tests (IGRA)
- Biopsy (for extrapulmonary TB)
Early diagnosis helps in effective treatment.
Treatment for Tuberculosis
TB is treatable with antibiotics, usually taken for 6 to 9 months. It’s crucial to complete the full course to prevent drug-resistant TB.
For active TB:
- A combination of antibiotics (Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, Pyrazinamide)
- Regular followups to monitor progress
For latent TB:
- Preventive treatment to stop it from becoming active
Tips to Manage and Prevent TB
Ways to manage and prevent TB:
- Take medications as prescribed – Skipping doses can lead to drug resistance.
- Maintain good hygiene – Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
- Eat a balanced diet – Strengthen your immune system with nutritious food.
- Avoid close contact if infected – Stay home until your doctor confirms you’re no longer contagious.
- Get vaccinated (BCG vaccine) – Helps prevent severe forms of TB in children.
Need Help? Consult a Doctor Today!
If you suspect TB or have been exposed to someone with TB, don’t delay. Early treatment can save lives.
Book a consultation or TB test on Apollo 24|7 for expert care from the comfort of your home.
Final Thoughts
Tuberculosis is a serious but curable disease. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical help can make a big difference. Stay informed, stay safe, and take care of your health!
If you have any concerns, reach out to a healthcare provider today.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Ashmitha Padma
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine
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2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
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Dr. Debashis Nayak
Endocrinologist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine), PG Diploma ( Diabetes & Endocrinology )
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Apollo Hospitals, Rourkela, Rourkela
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
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Dr. Sitaram V. Chowti
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
(100+ Patients)
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Ashmitha Padma
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Debashis Nayak
Endocrinologist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine), PG Diploma ( Diabetes & Endocrinology )
Rourkela
Apollo Hospitals, Rourkela, Rourkela
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Sitaram V. Chowti
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
(100+ Patients)
