Serious complications of typhoid fever: Why early treatment and prevention matter
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated food or water. It can cause fever, stomach pain and tiredness. Because these symptoms can look like many other illnesses, getting the right diagnosis is sometimes delayed. When treatment is delayed, typhoid can lead to serious health problems. Knowing the risks and acting early can help prevent complications and save lives.[1]
Why early diagnosis and prompt treatment save lives
Typhoid needs timely and correct treatment to prevent complications, and, in some cases, even death. In many places where typhoid is common, people may struggle to reach hospitals or get proper tests, which leads to delays. The safest approach is to get medical care early and follow the full antibiotic course without waiting for symptoms to worsen. When early treatment is provided, the chances of serious typhoid complications drop significantly.[2,3]
Major complications of untreated or late-treated typhoid[2]
If typhoid is not treated in time, it can become severe. Some of the serious complications of typhoid include:
- Intestinal perforation (a tear in the intestine)
- Gastrointestinal haemorrhage (bleeding in the digestive tract)
- Hepatitis (liver inflammation)
- Cholecystitis (infection of the gallbladder)
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
- Encephalopathy (brain disorders)
- Pneumonia and anemia
Intestinal perforation and heavy bleeding are among the most dangerous and can be life-threatening even with surgery. In some regions, many patients with intestinal perforation do not survive because access to surgical and intensive care services can be limited.
Warning signs and when to act[2,4]
Contact a doctor immediately if someone with typhoid shows:
- Increasing stomach pain
- Blood in stool
- Very high fever
- Confusion or unusual behavior
- Severe weakness or fainting
These signs may indicate a serious complication is developing and that urgent hospital care is needed.
Prevention and protection[1,3]
Preventing typhoid starts with safe water, clean food, and good hygiene. Simple steps include:
- Wash hands with soap and clean water before eating or cooking, and after using the toilet.
- Drink bottled or boiled water.
- Eat food that is hot and well-cooked.
- Avoid raw or unwashed vegetables and fruits you did not prepare yourself.
- Do not eat uncovered or street food in high-risk areas.
Vaccination also plays a key role. It helps protect individuals and communities while long-term improvements in water and sanitation continue.[2]
Conclusion
Typhoid can become dangerous when treatment is delayed, but serious complications are preventable. Early diagnosis, completing the full course of treatment, safe food and water habits, and taking the typhoid vaccine are the strongest tools we have. Speak to your doctor about getting the typhoid vaccine for prevention.
FAQs
Can typhoid cause intestinal rupture?
Yes. If not treated in time, intestinal perforation during typhoid can take place, which is a life-threatening emergency.
What happens if typhoid is left untreated?
Untreated typhoid’s risks can last for weeks and lead to serious complications such as bleeding, brain involvement, shock, or intestinal perforation.
Can typhoid be fatal?
It can be. Without treatment, typhoid can be very dangerous. With early medical care, the chance of death is much lower.
Resources
Disclaimer: A public awareness initiative by Bharat Biotech International Limited. This information is for general awareness only and does not constitute medical advice. The doctors, medical facilities and graphics shown are for illustrative purposes only. For any medical advice or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition, consult your doctor.