Prolonged cough may indicate tuberculosis; seek medical help

A persistent cough that lasts more than two weeks might be a sign of tuberculosis (TB), a serious bacterial disease. Along with the cough, people with TB may experience fever, weight loss, night sweats, and sometimes blood in their sputum. It's important to recognize these symptoms early and seek medical help. Dr. Neeraj Gupta, a pulmonologist, explains that a cough caused by TB is usually wet and comes with other systemic symptoms, unlike a dry cough related to allergies. Allergies often lead to sneezing and nasal congestion but do not cause fever or weight loss. If your cough persists and is accompanied by any severe symptoms, it's crucial to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and stop the spread of TB. In contrast, an allergic cough usually responds well to antihistamines and is influenced by environmental factors. It tends to improve when you avoid allergens. Dr. Gupta emphasizes that if you have a cough that lasts more than two weeks, do not ignore it, as it could indicate a more serious illness.