Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a serious infectious disease. It is caused by the bacterium Salmonella. It spreads through polluted food and water or close contact with an infected person. Typhoid fever is common in polluted areas. It can be life-threatening without proper treatment. It is important to recognise the symptoms and causes of typhoid fever for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

Signs Body Shows During Typhoid Fever

The symptoms of typhoid fever can occur within three weeks of the bacterial infection's attack. The symptoms can change.

1. Persistent High Fever:

Typhoid fever usually increases within several weeks. If treatment is not given on time the temperature can increase over time. Sometimes the fever can show a gradual increase followed by a prolonged rise.



2. Stomach Pain during Typhoid fever:

Typhoid fever causes stomach pain. This pain can be mild to severe. It gets worse with the severity of the disease.



3. Improper Digestion problems:

One of the most common symptoms of typhoid fever is diarrhea. Constipation can also occur in place of diarrhea in some cases.



4. Tiredness in the Body:

Typhoid fever can cause severe stress and weakness. It makes daily tasks difficult to perform. One can experience joint and muscle pain when suffering from typhoid fever. The pain occurs especially around the limbs and back.



5. Rose Spots on the Skin:

Typhoid fever can also cause small spots. They are pink or reddish in colour. They usually appear on the chest and abdomen area. They are characteristic of typhoid fever but are not always present.



6. Weight Loss and Less Intake of Food:

Low intake of food and weight loss are symptoms of typhoid fever. The bacteria cause irritation and swelling in the intestines. A person is unable to eat with this pain which leads to less eating and weight loss. Also, the immune system's heavy use of energy during the infection decreases hunger. A decreased desire to eat is also influenced by the fever and overall discomfort. With time, weight reduction becomes noticeable due to decreased hunger.

Causes of Typhoid Fever

1. S.Typhi Bacterial Infection:

Ingesting contaminated food or drink is the main way that this highly evolved human-pathogen bacteria spreads. Systemic infection results from the germs entering the bloodstream through the gut lining after ingestion.



2. Water Sources are Contaminated:

Ingesting contaminated water can result in typhoid illness. The bacteria can get into water supplies due to inadequate sewage treatment and disposal. People consume germs when they drink, cook with, or wash food in this contaminated water. The bacteria enter the human body through the intestines and cause high temperature, severe stomach pain, and other symptoms.



3. Consuming Contaminated Food:

Typhoid fever is usually passed on by contaminated food. This contamination happens in places with inadequate hygiene and sanitation standards. For example, fruits and vegetables can get infected if they are irrigated with sewage-tainted water or come into contact with flies that have landed on the feces of the infected person.



4. Person-to-Person Transmission:

In addition to contaminated food and water, typhoid fever can spread directly from person to person, particularly in crowded or unsanitary conditions.



5. Travel to Endemic Areas:

Travelers visiting regions with high rates of typhoid fever are at greater risk of getting it. Because they can contract the infection if they consume contaminated food or water.

Prevention Strategies:

Preventing typhoid fever involves implementing effective public health measures, including:

1. Improving Sanitation:

Ensuring access to clean water and proper sewage disposal systems.



2. Promoting Hygiene:

Bettering your hygiene is the most important way to inhibit the spread of typhoid fever. Encouraging people about washing their hands with soap and water both before and after using the washroom. Important measures include handling food properly, cooking it fully, and avoiding raw meals in places where typhoid is common. It is important to drink only boiled or treated water.



3. Vaccination:

Vaccination plays an important role in lessening the spread of typhoid fever among people. These are available everywhere for high-risk groups, tourists visiting such areas, and people who spend more time in polluted environments. Early detection and treatment are essential for managing cases and preventing increased community transmission.

Diagnosis

Typhoid fever can be diagnosed in many ways. Like through blood tests, clinical examinations, and stool cultures. These tests help in detecting the presence of Salmonella bacteria. Early diagnosis is important for starting the proper course of antibiotic treatment. The doctors usually suggest the use of cephalosporins or fluoroquinolones as start-up antibiotics. But supporting care, enough nutrition, and fluids are as important as antibiotics for healing.

It's important to note that the symptoms of typhoid fever can vary. Not all individuals experience every symptom. The disease can resemble other diseases as well. So, a complete check-up by a medical professional is important for proper diagnosis and treatment. You can also book an appointment with a healthcare professional through PrimeMedic.