Typhoid: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Mithil B Ghushe , General Medicine

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Typhoid is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the intestinal tract and bloodstream. Caused by Salmonella typhi, it leads to high fever, weakness, abdominal pain, and digestive issues. Early diagnosis and proper antibiotic treatment are key to recovery. Timely care can prevent serious complications and support a full return to health.

What are the Typhoid Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Typhoid symptoms and signs are likely to arise gradually, usually one to three weeks following contact with the disease.

Early illness signs

Among the signs and symptoms are:

• Fever that begins low and gradually rises, possibly reaching 104.9 F. (40.5 C)
• Headache
• Weakness and exhaustion
• Muscle pain
• Sweating
• Cough is dry
• Appetite loss and weight loss
• Stomach ache
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Rash
• Stomach bloating

Late illness

If you do not receive therapy, you may:

• Hallucination
• In this typhoid stage, you'll be still and weary, with your eyes half-closed.

At this stage, life-threatening problems are common. Signs and symptoms may reappear up to two weeks after the fever has subsided in some persons.

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What are the Different Types of Typhoid ?

The typhoid types may include :

• Typhoid Fever (Enteric Fever): The most common form affecting the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, abdominal pain, and systemic infection.
• Paratyphoid Fever: Caused by Salmonella paratyphi bacteria, which causes milder symptoms than typhoid fever but still requires medical attention.

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What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Typhoid?

Typhoid causes illness and is caused by the Salmonella typhi bacteria, typically transmitted through:

Causes of Typhoid

• Caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria.
• Spreads through contaminated food or water.
• Poor sanitation and hygiene are major factors.
• Close contact with infected individuals can also transmit it.

Risk Factors of Typhoid

Here are the risk factors of typhoid:

• Travelling to regions with poor sanitation
• Consuming contaminated food or water
• Close contact with infected individuals
• Weakened immune system
• Age (children and elderly are more vulnerable)
• Certain occupations (e.g., healthcare workers)
• Being a carrier of Salmonella Typhi

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How is Typhoid Diagnosed?

Type 2 typhoid fever is diagnosed through blood and stool cultures, along with clinical evaluation and physical examination. The Widal test may also be used in some cases, but it has limitations.

PCR tests can provide rapid and accurate results. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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What are the Treatment Options for Typhoid?

Typhoid is typically treated with antibiotics such as:

• Ciprofloxacin
• Azithromycin
• Ceftriaxone

Typhoid Treatment duration is usually 7 to 10 days, and severe cases may require hospitalization. Surgery may be needed if complications like intestinal perforation occur.

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When to See a Doctor?

If you're experiencing early typhoid symptoms such as:

• prolonged fever
• vomiting
• diarrhea

don't wait, visit your doctor promptly. Ignoring signs of typhoid can be dangerous, so seek urgent medical attention.

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What is the Recovery Process After Typhoid Treatment?

To help patients understand what to expect after typhoid treatment and how to support full recovery.

Recovering from typhoid fever involves more than just completing a course of antibiotics.

Follow-Up Schedule

• First review: 1-2 weeks after completing treatment to confirm symptom resolution and review blood test results.
• Ongoing check-ups: Monthly evaluations (if symptoms linger) to rule out complications like intestinal issues or liver involvement.
• Carrier screening: In some cases, further testing ensures you're not a long-term carrier of Salmonella typhi, which could put others at risk.

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Hydration is key: Continue drinking plenty of clean, filtered water to support kidney function and overall healing.
• Eat light, nutritious meals: Stick to soft, easily digestible foods like rice, boiled vegetables, bananas, and clear soups.
• Avoid spicy or oily food for several weeks as your gut lining recovers.
• Take adequate rest: Avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks post-treatment to prevent relapse.
• Probiotic support: Incorporate yogurt or medically approved probiotics to restore gut flora disrupted by antibiotics.

Long-Term Outlook

Most patients recover fully from typhoid with prompt and complete treatment. However, delayed care or incomplete antibiotic courses can lead to relapses or complications like bowel perforation. With proper follow-up and healthy lifestyle adjustments, the risk of long-term effects is minimal.

What Precautions Can Help Prevent Typhoid?

Offer practical steps to avoid typhoid and stay informed about related health risks.

Typhoid fever is preventable with a few key lifestyle changes and precautions, especially in areas where it is more common.

Prevention Measures

• Drink safe water: Use filtered or boiled water for drinking and cooking.
• Practice food hygiene: Avoid raw street food, unwashed fruits, or uncooked vegetables.
• Wash hands frequently: Especially before eating and after using the restroom.
• Vaccination: Typhoid vaccines are recommended for people living in or traveling to high-risk areas.
• Safe sanitation: Ensure proper disposal of waste and use clean toilets to avoid bacterial transmission.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Choose freshly cooked meals over raw or processed options.
• Maintain personal and kitchen hygiene.
• Encourage children to follow safe eating and drinking habits.

Regular Screenings

• If you've been exposed or live in an endemic area, periodic health checks can help detect asymptomatic carriers or early signs of infection.
• Stool cultures and Widal tests can be recommended for family members if one person is diagnosed.

Complications of Untreated Typhoid

The typhoid fever can cause serious complications, including:

• Intestinal bleeding or perforation
• Severe dehydration leading to kidney failure
• Septicemia (infection spreading to the bloodstream)
• Organ damage

Medicover's Preventive Approach

At Medicover, prevention is at the heart of our healthcare philosophy. We offer routine screenings, vaccinations, and education on water and food safety, ensuring you and your family stay protected from typhoid and other infectious diseases.

Our Experience Treating Typhoid

At Medicover Hospitals, we understand the stress and discomfort that come with typhoid fever. Every day, our medical experts deliver individual, evidence-based care to patients battling this infection. From early diagnosis using advanced labs to prepared treatment plans and post-recovery support, our goal is simple, help you heal fully and prevent relapse.

Our compassionate teams don't just treat typhoid; we empower you with knowledge and care every step of the way.

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