Typhoid Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Remedies
Typhoid fever is caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi. This germ mainly spreads in the body through contaminated food and water and causes various symptoms including fever. Let's know about the causes, symptoms, treatment and remedies of typhoid fever.
Causes and transmission of typhoid fever
Typhoid fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (S. Typhi). The disease is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, but it can also spread from person to person under certain conditions. Here are the main causes and modes of transmission of typhoid fever:
Bacterial Cause: Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium S. Typhi. It primarily affects the intestines and is usually found in the feces and sometimes in the urine of infected individuals. The bacterium can survive outside the human body for a short period, which allows it to contaminate food and water sources.
Contaminated Food and Water: The most common mode of transmission is through the consumption of food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. This contamination usually occurs when sewage water contaminates drinking water sources or when food is prepared with unwashed hands or using contaminated water.
Poor Sanitation: In areas with inadequate sanitation facilities and poor hygiene practices, the risk of transmission is significantly higher. Lack of proper sewage disposal and improper handling of food can contribute to the spread of the bacteria.
Carrier State: Some individuals can become carriers of S. Typhi without showing any symptoms of the disease. These carriers can shed the bacteria in their feces or urine for an extended period. They act as a reservoir for the bacteria, and if their waste contaminates food or water, it can lead to new infections.
Person-to-Person Transmission: Although less common, typhoid fever can spread from an infected person to a healthy person through direct contact. This can happen when an infected person handles food that others consume or if proper handwashing is not practiced after using the toilet.
Travel-Related Transmission: Travelers visiting regions with poor sanitation and hygiene standards may be at risk of contracting typhoid fever if they consume contaminated food or water. This is commonly referred to as "traveler's typhoid."
Who is at risk of typhoid?
People at risk of typhoid fever include those living in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water, travelers visiting regions with inadequate hygiene standards, and individuals in close contact with typhoid carriers. Additionally, individuals who consume contaminated food or water and those who do not practice proper handwashing and food handling are also at increased risk. Certain occupations, such as food handlers and healthcare workers, may have a higher likelihood of exposure. However, typhoid is more likely to affect children.
Symptoms of typhoid fever
Typhoid fever symptoms can vary in severity, and they typically develop within 1 to 3 weeks after exposure to the bacteria. The following are common symptoms of typhoid fever:
High Fever: Sustained and high-grade fever, often reaching 103-104°F (39-40°C), is a hallmark symptom of typhoid fever.
Abdominal Pain: Persistent abdominal discomfort and tenderness are common, and the abdomen may feel distended.
Headache and Body Aches: Headaches and generalized body aches are common, contributing to the feeling of overall malaise.
Weakness and Fatigue: Patients often experience weakness, fatigue, and a sense of exhaustion.
Loss of Appetite: A significant decrease in appetite and weight loss are typical.
Rash: Some individuals may develop a flat, rose-colored rash with small red spots.
Constipation or Diarrhea: Bowel habits may be affected, with either constipation or diarrhea occurring.
Enlarged Spleen and Liver: The spleen and liver may become enlarged, which can be detected during a physical examination.
Delirium and Confusion: In severe cases, individuals may experience mental changes like delirium and confusion.
It's important to note that some people, especially carriers of the bacteria, may have mild or no symptoms but can still spread the infection to others. If you experience any of the above symptoms, especially after traveling to areas with poor sanitation or after potential exposure to the bacteria, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment. Typhoid fever can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition if left untreated.
How is typhoid fever diagnosed?
Typhoid fever is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and laboratory tests. During the clinical evaluation, the healthcare provider will inquire about the patient's symptoms, recent travel history, and potential exposure to contaminated food or water. Laboratory tests are then conducted to confirm the diagnosis. The most common tests include blood culture, where a blood sample is taken and tested for the presence of the Salmonella Typhi bacterium, and a Widal test, which detects specific antibodies against the bacterium in the blood. It's important to obtain a definitive diagnosis since the symptoms of typhoid fever can be similar to other infectious diseases, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications and further spread of the infection.
Treatment of typhoid fever
Doctors treat typhoid fever mainly with antibiotics. Fever may take up to five days to subside even after initiation of specific antibiotics. Typhoid fever can persist for weeks or months if not treated promptly. Besides, the patient may suffer from other complications. Along with the treatment, the patient needs to be given plenty of fluids as chronic fever and diarrhea can lead to dehydration. If dehydration occurs in severe form, liquid nutrition can also be given by intravenous medication. A typhoid patient should have complete rest. If the fever is high, the whole body should be wiped with a wet towel or towel. High-calorie foods should be consumed to restore nutrients lost during illness. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after each use of the bathroom. The most important thing is to take antibiotics for as long as the doctor advises.
Prevention of typhoid fever
Prevention of typhoid fever involves several measures aimed at reducing the risk of infection. Here are some important preventive measures:
Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against typhoid fever is a crucial preventive measure, especially for individuals traveling to areas with a high risk of the disease or those at increased exposure, such as healthcare workers and laboratory personnel. There are both oral and injectable typhoid vaccines available, and the choice of vaccine depends on factors like age, health status, and travel plans.
Safe Food and Water: Avoid consuming food and drinks from unreliable or unhygienic sources. Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks. Ensure that fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed and peeled before consumption. Be cautious when eating street food and in areas with poor sanitation.
Hand Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Handwashing helps prevent the spread of the bacteria from contaminated surfaces to the mouth.
Sanitation: Use proper sanitation facilities, and avoid open defecation. Improving sanitation in communities can significantly reduce the risk of typhoid fever transmission.
Avoiding Close Contact with Carriers: Limit close contact with known carriers of S. Typhi to prevent transmission. If you suspect someone is a carrier, encourage them to seek medical evaluation and treatment.
Food Handlers and Hygiene: Ensure that food handlers and preparers follow strict hygiene practices, including handwashing and proper food handling, to prevent contamination.
Travel Precautions: If traveling to regions with a high incidence of typhoid fever, consult with a healthcare provider to assess the need for vaccination and follow preventive measures during the trip.
By adopting these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting typhoid fever and contribute to controlling the spread of the disease within communities.
Cleanliness is the key to avoid typhoid. People who travel regularly often have to eat at different places. In these areas, it is not always possible to ensure clean water and healthy food, so the risk of contracting typhoid is high. So caution should be exercised in eating outside food and drinking water when visiting typhoid prone areas.
