Typhoid Fever
Typhoid Fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by *Salmonella Typhi*. Unlike other common salmonella infections, typhoid fever is a systemic illness that can affect multiple organs throughout your body. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and can be life-threatening. The bacteria responsible for Typhoid Fever are typically spread through contaminated food and water, often due to poor hygiene or sanitation where an infected person's feces contaminate the environment. This means you can get infected by consuming food or drinks that have been handled by someone carrying the bacteria, or by consuming water that is not clean. Because the symptoms of Typhoid Fever can be similar to many other common illnesses, accurate diagnosis relies heavily on specific laboratory tests. Your doctor orders these tests, such as blood, stool, or urine cultures, to detect the presence of the *Salmonella Typhi* bacteria. Identifying the bacteria is crucial for confirming the infection, guiding the correct antibiotic treatment, and preventing serious complications, as well as stopping the spread to others.
Common Symptoms
- High fever (steadily increasing over days)
- Headache
- General fatigue and weakness
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits (e.g., constipation or diarrhea)
Clinical Sources
- Typhoid Fever: Causes, Symptoms & TreatmentCleveland Clinic
Diagnostic Lab Tests
Tests commonly used to diagnose or monitor Typhoid Fever:
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