Which symptom could be an indicator of tuberculosis?

The symptom of coughing with thick phlegm for more than three weeks is a significant indicator of tuberculosis (TB). This chronic cough often results from the infection causing the lungs to become inflamed and filled with mucus. In tuberculosis, the body's immune response leads to granuloma formation, which can produce persistent cough as the lungs are affected. Given that TB primarily affects the respiratory system, this symptom aligns closely with the typical presentations associated with the disease.

The duration of the cough—lasting over three weeks—is particularly critical as it exceeds the timeframe of what is commonly seen in acute respiratory infections. TB is known for its insidious onset, and a cough that persists for this length of time should prompt further evaluation for TB or other serious respiratory illnesses.

While other symptoms listed may occur in various medical conditions, they do not specifically correlate with the classic presentation of tuberculosis. Understanding the symptoms associated with TB and their implications helps inform diagnosis and treatment effectively.