Weakness, high fever, stomach pains, headache, and a rash of flat, rose-colored spots are possible typhoid fever symptoms. 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 signs of typhoid fever is encouraged to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Typhoid Fever?
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 typhoid fever symptoms 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 the Symptoms 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.
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