What is a potential consequence of untreated tuberculosis (TB)?

Untreated tuberculosis (TB) can lead to serious health complications, and one of the potential consequences is respiratory failure. TB primarily affects the lungs, causing extensive inflammation and damage to lung tissue. As the disease progresses without treatment, the lungs become increasingly compromised, leading to difficulty in breathing and reduced oxygenation of the blood. In advanced cases, severe lung destruction can occur, causing respiratory failure, which can be life-threatening and may require mechanical ventilation or other intensive medical interventions.

In contrast, increased appetite, improved lung function, and enhanced immunity are not typical outcomes associated with untreated TB. The disease often results in weight loss, decreased lung function due to damage, and impaired immune response, as the body struggles to combat the active infection. This highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis to prevent such severe complications.