Typhoid Symptoms in Adults: Signs to Watch Out For

Understanding Typhoid Fever

Waterborne infections rise significantly during the Indian monsoon and summer seasons, and typhoid fever remains one of the most common culprits. Caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi, typhoid spreads through contaminated food and water—often in areas with poor sanitation or irregular water quality.

Typhoid symptoms often resemble general stomach or viral infections, making early diagnosis difficult. Yet, timely detection can drastically reduce the chances of complications. This article explains the stages of typhoid symptoms in adults, how to distinguish it from other fevers, and when to seek testing and care.

Is Typhoid Still Common in Indian Adults?

Yes. Typhoid is still prevalent across metro cities and tier-2 towns in India. According to ICMR reports and WHO data, adult cases account for a significant proportion of seasonal typhoid infections. Outbreaks often spike between April and September, particularly after heavy rains or during water supply disruptions. The risk is higher in areas with untreated drinking water or roadside food consumption habits.

Typhoid Symptom Timeline

Early Symptoms of Typhoid (Days 1–3)

• Mild fever that gradually increases day by day
• General fatigue or weakness
• Headache and body discomfort
• Loss of appetite and slight abdominal unease
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These symptoms can easily be mistaken for viral flu or digestive issues, which is why observation over a few days is crucial.

Progressing Symptoms (Days 4–7)

• High fever, often peaking around 102–103°F
• Severe weakness and muscle soreness
• Constipation or diarrhea—can vary between individuals
• Coated tongue with a white layer
• Dry cough may develop without nasal congestion

If not diagnosed and treated, the infection can progress rapidly in this phase.

Late-Stage or Severe Typhoid (Beyond Day 7)

• Abdominal bloating or pain
• Internal bleeding or intestinal perforation (in untreated cases)
• Delirium or mental confusion
• Bradycardia: unusually slow heart rate compared to fever severity

Severe typhoid is life-threatening and needs immediate hospitalization.

When Should Adults Get Tested?

If you’ve had a fever that persists for more than 3 days—especially accompanied by abdominal symptoms or fatigue—it's time to get tested. Waiting beyond Day 5 can increase risk of complications. Common diagnostic tests include:

• Widal Test: Detects antibodies against Salmonella Typhi
• Blood Culture: Most accurate in the early phase (Day 1–5)

Avoid self-medication. Antibiotics taken without lab confirmation can mask symptoms and prolong recovery.

Preventive Tips for Adults

• Drink only filtered or boiled water
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
• Avoid roadside food during outbreaks
• Get vaccinated, especially before international or rural travel

How Orange Health Can Help

Orange Health Labs provides fast, accurate, and home-friendly testing solutions for typhoid and other infectious illnesses. Their services include:

• Widal Test
• Sample collection at home within 60 minutes

Book online, avoid waiting rooms, and get results in time to start diagnosing better.

Typhoid can be dangerous if left untreated, but it's highly manageable when diagnosed early. Recognizing the timeline of symptoms—from mild fever to abdominal distress—can guide you to take action before it worsens.

If you or someone you know shows symptoms, don’t wait. Book a Widal test with Orange Health Labs and take the first step toward safe, timely recovery.