Typhoid fever is a commonly occurring bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated food and water or through close contact with the infected person. Its signs and symptoms usually include a high fever, headache, abdominal pain, and even diarrhea.
Signs and symptoms of Typhoid fever –
- Headache, weakness, loss of appetite and fatigue
- Muscle aches, sweating, dry cough and diarrhea or constipation
Besides that, some patients also have rashes on their chest as well as abdomen.
Causes of Typhoid fever –
- Salmonella typhi bacteria
- Contaminated food and water
- Poor sanitation
Facts and figures –
- Typhoid fever remains a serious worldwide threat — especially in the developing world — affecting an estimated 26 million or more people each year.
- Worldwide, typhoid fever affects more than 21 million people annually.
Did you know?
- A physician in Paris first described typhoid fever in 1829.
- Typhoid fever is treated with antibiotics.
- Bacteria (Salmonella typhi) invade the gallbladder, biliary system, and the lymphatic tissue of the bowel.
- When properly treated, typhoid fever is not fatal in most cases.
Complications –
- Intestinal bleeding or holes
- Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis)
- Inflammation of the lining of the heart and valves (endocarditis)
- Pneumonia
- Kidney or bladder infections
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
Prevention –
- Drink safe drinking water.
- Improve sanitation.
- Look for adequate medical care.
- Choose the right food.
- Do not consume unpasteurized dairy products.
- Never eat food that looks, smells, or tastes odd.
Treatment options –
Commonly prescribed antibiotics include:
- Ciprofloxacin
- Azithromycin
- Ceftriaxone
Besides that, doctors often recommend a wide range of typhoid tablets and other fever pills depending on the severity of the case. Most patients recover in a week; however, immediate assistance is given to patients who are at risk of severe complications.
Hence, talk to your doctor immediately, if you think you have typhoid fever.