What happens if typhoid fever is not treated?

Typhoid fever is an infection that can cause persistent fever, headache, weakness, abdominal discomfort and diarrhoea or constipation. Without appropriate treatment, illness may continue and fluid loss can make dehydration worse. In severe cases, inflammation can damage the intestine and cause bleeding or a tear; infection may also spread beyond the gut. A person can remain infectious through stool even after feeling better, so careful handwashing and safe food handling protect household members.

Contact a clinician promptly if typhoid fever is suspected, particularly after travel or exposure to unsafe food or water. Assessment may include an examination and tests selected by the clinician. If prescribed antibiotic treatment, take it exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Drink suitable fluids if you can, rest, and avoid preparing food for others until a clinician advises that it is safe.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, blood in stool, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty or a fever with marked weakness. These signs can indicate dehydration, intestinal complications or a spreading infection and should not be managed at home.

Ask which tests are appropriate, when you should expect improvement, how to prevent transmission at home, whether follow-up is needed, and when you can safely return to work, school or food handling.