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Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Symptoms of typhoid fever include weakness, high fever, stomach pains, headache, and a rash of flat, rose-colored spots. If the condition is left untreated, other symptoms may develop, including intestinal bleeding, hepatitis, meningitis, and death. Because other conditions can have similar symptoms, anyone experiencing possible symptoms of typhoid fever is encouraged to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

 

Symptoms of Typhoid Fever: An Introduction

When a person becomes infected with the bacteria (Salmonella typhi) that cause typhoid fever, the bacteria begin to multiply and spread into the bloodstream. After 3 to 60 days, symptoms of typhoid fever can occur. This period between becoming infected and the start of symptoms is called the typhoid fever incubation period.
 
Symptoms of typhoid fever will vary among individuals. Some people may have mild symptoms, while other people could have serious symptoms, including death.
 

Common Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Common symptoms of typhoid fever include:
 
  • Fever as high as 103° to 104° F (39° to 40° C)
  • Rash of flat, rose-colored spots
  • Weakness
  • Stomach pains
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Decreased heart rate
  • Constipation
  • Bloody nose.
 

What If Symptoms of Typhoid Fever Go Untreated?

For someone who does not receive typhoid fever treatment, the high fever can continue for four to eight weeks. Other symptoms that may appear in someone who is not treated include:
 
  • Intestinal bleeding
  • Severe loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Osteomyelitis
  • Hepatitis
  • Meningitis
  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Arthritis
  • Parotitis
  • Orchitis
  • Death.
 
(Symptoms of Typhoid Fever Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD