Among the lung diseases, lung cancer and TB are the two most worrying conditions. Both can cause serious damage to the body. In such a situation, it is important to identify the symptoms of these diseases correctly. Let us know what is the difference in their symptoms and how they can be prevented.

There are two serious diseases related to lungs, lung cancer and TB i.e. tuberculosis. TB is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It especially affects those people whose immunity is weak. Lung cancer is a type of cancer in which the cells of the lungs start growing abnormally and take the form of tumors. Its main causes can be smoking, air pollution and genetic factors. Although both diseases affect the lungs, their causes, symptoms and treatment process are different. Both can prove fatal if not diagnosed and treated at the right time.

Both TB and lung cancer seriously affect the functioning of the lungs. TB can cause infection, lumps or cavities in the lungs, making breathing difficult and causing a lack of oxygen in the body. This infection can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic system. On the other hand, in lung cancer, cancerous cells gradually destroy healthy cells of the lungs. This causes problems like cough, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss and shortness of breath. If cancer spreads, it can also affect other organs like brain, bone and liver. In both conditions, the lifestyle of the person is deeply affected.

What is the difference between the symptoms of lung cancer and TB?

Dr Bhagwan Mantri of the Department of Pulmonology at Moolchand Hospital in Delhi explains that some symptoms of lung cancer and TB may be similar, such as persistent cough, chest pain, fatigue, and weight loss. But there are some clear differences between them. TB usually causes cough with phlegm, which may also contain blood. Fever, night sweats and loss of appetite are its special symptoms. This disease progresses slowly and its treatment is long-lasting.

The cough in lung cancer may be dry initially, but gradually it may start bleeding. Constant chest pain, breathlessness, and sudden weight loss are its main symptoms. Apart from this, symptoms like heaviness in voice, frequent respiratory infections and bone pain can also be seen. TB is an infection and its treatment is possible with antibiotics, while processes like chemotherapy, radiation and surgery are adopted in lung cancer. Therefore, only after proper investigation, it can be decided which disease the patient has.

How to protect yourself?

Avoid smoking and do not consume tobacco.

Get health checkups done from time to time, especially if you have persistent cough.

Get BCG vaccination to prevent TB.

Maintain distance from the infected person and wear a mask.

Take a nutritious diet and keep your immunity strong.

Stay in places with ventilation so that you can get fresh air.Do not ignore any symptoms and consult a doctor.