Typhoid: Causes and Treatment
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water. It causes symptoms like fever, headache, and stomach pain. Treatment with antibiotics is effective.
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.
Symptoms of Typhoid
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.
When to see a doctor?
If you’re experiencing early typhoid symptoms such as prolonged fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, don’t wait—visit your doctor promptly. Ignoring signs of typhoid can be dangerous, so seek urgent medical attention.
Causes of Typhoid
Typhoid causes illness and is caused by the Salmonella typhi bacteria, typically transmitted through:
- 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
Complications of 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
How can typhoid fever be prevented?
Here are the preventive measures for typhoid fever in concise points:
- Vaccination
- Good hygiene practices
- Drinking safe water
- Eating safe food
- Avoiding contaminated areas
- Travel precautions
- Sanitation promotion
How is type 2 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.
Treatment 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.
How Can Lifestyle Changes Help to Manage Typhoid Fever?
Follow some lifestyle changes and home remedies to manage typhoid:
- Eat freshly cooked food.
- Ask your doctor about what to eat and what to avoid.
- Drink a lot of water and fruit juices to stay hydrated.
- Drink boiled water.
- Avoid outside food, undercooked food, or oily food.
- Keep your surroundings clean.
- Take your medicines at the proper time.
What dos and don’ts for typhoid?
To prevent typhoid one has to follow certain sets of do’s and don’ts. Follow these tips –
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Eat home cooked food only. | Don’t eat junk food, oily or deep fries food. |
| Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. | Don’t eat left over food or cold food. |
| Maintain good hygiene, keep your surroundings clean. | Don’t stand in direct sunlight. |
| Continue to take your medication till the time it has been prescribed for. | Don’t stop taking your medicine. |
| Wash your hands before eating anything. | Don’t take foods that distress your digestive system |
