Typhoid: All You Need To Know

Typhoid, also known as Salmonella paratyphi or Salmonella typhi, is a severe bacterial infection. This infection is highly contagious. It can spread by contact with infected people or through contaminated foods and water. Typhoid fever is characterized by high temperature, headaches, stomach pain, and abdominal discomfort. Typhoid fever can be life-threatening so it is important to learn about the symptoms, Treatment options, and preventative tips.

What's Typhoid?

If left untreated, Typhoid can lead to severe complications. Typhoid is most common in younger people between 15 and 24 years old, but it can be contracted by anyone. There were approximately 128,000 cases and 21 million cases worldwide of Typhoid in 2017. Most deaths were in countries with limited healthcare access, such as low and middle income nations.

Typhoid symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, Diarrhea, stomach pains, headaches and weakness. Some cases may cause rash, diarrhea, Constipation or vomiting. The symptoms may become worse if the patient is not treated properly. This can lead to organ damage and internal bleeding as well as death.

Typhoid: Common Causes

Salmonella typhi and Salmonella paraatyphi bacteria are responsible for Typhoid. This bacteria is usually found in foods and beverages contaminated with feces of infected people. Infected people can get sick if they ingest contaminated foods and water or come in contact with someone suffering from the disease. Typhoid can also be caused by:

• Consuming raw, undercooked, or uncooked seafood, eggs or meat
• Consuming contaminated milk or water
• How to handle contaminated items
• Contacting an infected individual close to your body

Typhoid Treatments

Antibiotics are the best treatment for Typhoid. Antibiotics kill bacteria responsible for the illness and decrease the severity of the symptoms. Ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone are the most common antibiotics for typhoid. Most people are able to recover in two weeks with the use of antibiotics. To ensure that the bacteria is eliminated completely, however, you must complete all treatment.

Sometimes, physicians may recommend fluids or Medications for the treatment of symptoms. Some medications include anti-nausea and pain relief drugs. To maintain their immunity and stay hydrated, patients are advised to take rest.

Viewpoints of Experts and Pros

Experts agree that prompt diagnosis is key to successful treatment for typhoid. NYU Langone Health infectious disease specialist Dr. Jennifer Lighter says it is crucial to get a diagnosis quickly and start treatment immediately.

Researchers from King Saud University, Saudi Arabia found that antibiotics were the best treatment for Typhoid. Studying 180 patients, the Study revealed that antibiotics were effective in treating typhoid fever. 94% of patients received treatment. It was concluded that antibiotics were the best treatment for Typhoid Fever and should be used as quickly as possible.

Tips and Natural Remedies

You can reduce your chances of contracting typhoid by using natural methods and other prevention strategies. They include:

• Use soap and water to wash your hands frequently
• Don't eat raw or undercooked foods
• Only drink bottled water or boiled water
• Do not come in contact with people who are infected
• Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and pickles are good choices.
• Vitamin C supplements can be taken to improve your immunity system
• Get vaccinated for typhoid

Typhoid vaccines can be obtained. Two types of vaccines are available, the oral and injectable. For people over 2 years old, the oral vaccine can be taken in a tablet. For people over 14 years old, the injectable vaccine can be administered by way of a shot. Both vaccines offer good protection from typhoid, and are available for both children and adults.

Conclusion

Typhoid can be a life-threatening bacterial infection. This disease can be fatal. It is important that you are aware of its causes and how to prevent it. For a successful recovery, it is important to get a prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics. Typhoid vaccines can also be obtained. Finally, preventative measures like washing your hands frequently, not contacting infected persons, and eating probiotic-rich foods can reduce the chance of contracting typhoid.

Typhoid, which is a severe bacterial infection, requires immediate treatment. It is important to understand the causes and the prevention tips in order to stop the spread of the disease.