Typhoid fever is a contagious infectious disease caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria. This bacteria infects humans only, dwelling in bloodstreams and intestinal tracts.
Typhoid fever is spread via sufferers feces or urine contaminating food and water.
Typhoid fever causing bacteria makes its entry when you consume tainted food or water. Once inside, it multiplies and spreads to your bloodstream, invading your lymph nodes, liver and spleen.
Your immune system initially reacts by causing a fever. As typhoid fever’s bacterial infection progresses, it causes some characteristic symptoms that might include:
- chills
- nausea
- malaise
- high fever
- nosebleeds
- appetite loss
- bloody stools
- severe headache
- weakness, extreme fatigue
- abdominal pain, tenderness
- delirium, confusion, agitation
- constipation followed by diarrhea
- attention difficulties, mood fluctuations, hallucinations
Some will experience a rose spotted rash on their lower chest and abdomen.
Typhoid fever’s bloody diarrhea danger doesn’t always end once its symptoms vanish. Some folks become carriers of this bacterial infection, and continue shedding it through their waste long after recovery.
Primary treatment for your typhoid caused bloody diarrhea is a suitable antibiotic. Intravenous fluids and electrolytes may be required as well.
Typhoid fever usually clears up within a month after treatment. And following your treatment plan is vital because a relapse can occur if typhoid fever bacterial infection is not completely destroyed.
Prior to obtaining treatment, keep yourself hydrated to prevent dehydration. Drinking liquids containing electrolytes and sugar is an excellent choice.
Early treatment is important to avoid serious complications, such as:
- peritonitis
- kidney failure
- intestinal hemorrhaging, perforation
Countries having bereft sewage systems and limited hand-washing water availability tend to be mostly hit with typhoid fever.
Typhoid fever’s bloody diarrhea risk is greatest for South Asia and developing countries in Central and South America, Asia, Africa and Caribbean. Especially if your travel plans take you into smaller cities, villages and rural areas.
A vaccine is available. However, its not a guarantee. So, vigilance in avoiding contaminated foods and water is highly recommended whenever travelling to regions with a high incidence of typhoid fever.
A healthy rule of thumb is to follow CDC recommends for what to eat and drink.
