Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, commonly transmitted through contaminated food, water, or drinks. Once the bacteria enter your body, they pass through the intestines and into the bloodstream, spreading to various organs such as the lymph nodes, liver, gallbladder, and spleen. Since typhoid fever shares symptoms with other illnesses, accurate diagnosis can be challenging without proper testing. This is where the Widal test becomes crucial. Keep reading to understand when to book widal test and how it helps in diagnosing typhoid.
What is a Widal Test?
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A Widal test is a blood test used to diagnose or exclude typhoid fever, even when symptoms are mild. Since it generally takes 6 to 30 days for fever symptoms to manifest after infection, the test is most effective when administered after the first week of symptoms. When infected with Salmonella typhi, the body produces specific antibodies in response to these antigens. The Widal test is designed to identify antibodies against the somatic (O) and flagellar (H) antigens associated with typhoid fever. The Widal test measures the interaction between these antigens and antibodies in a blood sample. By detecting these antibodies, the test can confirm whether a person has been infected with the bacteria causing typhoid fever.
When Should You Get a Widal Test Done?
Typhoid fever can cause severe health issues if left untreated. If you experience symptoms of typhoid, your doctor may suggest you to book Widal testto confirm the diagnosis. Early symptoms include fever, a general feeling of unwellness, and abdominal discomfort. As the illness progresses, high fever (above 39.5°C or 103°F) and severe diarrhoea may develop. Some individuals may also notice a rash known as “rose spots,” which are small, red spots on the chest and abdomen. Additional symptoms of typhoid fever may include:
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- Chills
- Bloody stools
- Agitation, delirium, or confusion
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
- Nosebleeds
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling sluggish and weak
- Extreme fatigue
What Do Widal Test Results Mean?
The Widal test gives results in titer ranging from 1:20 to 1:640. A titer of 1:160 or higher generally indicates a positive result. A positive Widal test suggests that the person has been infected with the Salmonella typhi bacteria. However, if the test shows a negative result (titer value below 1:160) with O and H antigens, then the person likely does not have enteric fever, and his/her symptoms may be due to another infection. It’s important to note that a positive result doesn’t always indicate an active infection, as antibodies can remain in the bloodstream even after the infection has been treated.
How is Typhoid Fever Treated?
If typhoid fever is diagnosed early, antibiotics are typically prescribed, with most patients needing to take them for 7 to 14 days. However, some strains of Salmonella typhi have developed resistance to certain antibiotics. Symptoms usually improve within 2 to 3 days after starting treatment, but completing the entire course is crucial to fully eliminate the bacteria. Along with antibiotics, plenty of fluids, rest, and eating smaller, frequent meals can aid recovery. Maintaining good personal hygiene, especially hand washing, helps prevent spreading the infection to others.
In severe cases, where symptoms like severe diarrhoea, persistent vomiting, or abdominal swelling occur, hospital admission is necessary. In the hospital, patients receive antibiotic injections and may need fluids and nutrients through an intravenous drip. Surgery is rarely required but may be necessary for life-threatening complications, such as internal bleeding or perforation of the digestive system. Most people get better in the hospital within 3 to 5 days, though full recovery may take several weeks.
Conclusion
Early detection of typhoid fever is critical to prevent complications, and the Widal test plays a key role in confirming the infection. If you experience symptoms such as high fever, severe fatigue, or abdominal discomfort, it’s essential to book Widal test to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Early treatment with antibiotics, along with hydration, proper rest, and hygiene practices, can lead to a full recovery. However, in severe cases, hospitalisation may be required for intensive care. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to combat typhoid fever effectively.