A SERIOUS INFECTION FROM CONTAMINATED FOOD OR WATER
Typhoid Fever
A bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, contracted from contaminated food or water, causing prolonged fever, weakness, stomach pain and complications if untreated. Curable with antibiotics.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Typhoid Fever
Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, spread through contaminated food and water. It is more common in regions with poor sanitation and unsafe water supplies. The infection typically causes prolonged high fever that increases gradually over days, severe weakness, stomach pain, headache, loss of appetite, and sometimes constipation or diarrhoea. A characteristic rose-coloured rash may appear in some patients. Untreated typhoid can lead to dangerous complications such as intestinal bleeding, perforation and severe systemic illness. Prompt diagnosis with blood and stool tests, followed by appropriate antibiotic therapy, leads to full recovery. Vaccination provides effective prevention. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete typhoid care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Drinking water contaminated with Salmonella Typhi
- Eating food prepared with contaminated water or by infected handlers
- Poor sanitation and unsafe water supplies
- Close contact with someone who has typhoid
- Travel to areas where typhoid is common
- Inadequate hand hygiene before eating or preparing food
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Blood culture (most reliable), Widal test in selected cases and stool culture
Antibiotic therapy chosen according to local resistance patterns
Intestinal bleeding or perforation if untreated
Most patients recover well with timely antibiotic treatment
Safe drinking water, hand hygiene and typhoid vaccination
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Targeted Antibiotic Therapy with Vaccination for Prevention
The most effective approach for active typhoid is targeted antibiotic therapy based on culture and sensitivity, with full supportive care. For prevention, typhoid vaccination is the single most effective long-term measure, especially for travellers and those in high-risk environments.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews the fever pattern, history and exposure risk, examines the patient and orders blood and stool tests including cultures.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised treatment plan based on severity, culture results and the patient's overall condition.
- 3
Medical Management
Targeted antibiotic therapy, hydration, fever control and close monitoring for complications such as bleeding or perforation.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up to confirm complete recovery, advice on food and water safety and discussion of vaccination for future protection.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Antibiotic Therapy
Targeted antibiotic treatment chosen according to culture and sensitivity testing for fast and complete recovery.
Hydration and Supportive Care
Adequate fluids, nutrition and rest support recovery during the prolonged febrile illness.
Fever Control
Safe fever-controlling medication helps relieve discomfort and reduce the impact of high temperatures.
Monitoring for Complications
Close clinical and laboratory monitoring detects intestinal bleeding, perforation or other complications early.
Vaccination for Prevention
Typhoid vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups and travellers, and is highly effective in preventing infection.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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