Typhoid, also referred to as typhoid fever, is a bacterial infection that frequently requires hospitalization and intensive medical treatment, although milder forms may be able to be treated at home. Antibiotic therapy is the most common of all the typhoid treatments. Other methods may include dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and bed rest. In some cases, surgical intervention may become necessary.
Antibiotic therapy is often the first line in typhoid treatments. There are several types of antibiotics that can be used to treat this condition. Unfortunately, some strains of typhoid may not respond well to these antibiotics. The doctor may order a test known as a culture to find out which antibiotics will work best in each individual situation. It typically takes a couple of days for the culture results to be available, so a combination of antibiotics may be used in the meantime.
Preventing dehydration is among the most important typhoid treatments. Patients are typically advised to increase fluid intake during treatment for this condition. If symptoms are severe or dehydration occurs, the patient may need to be hospitalized for further treatment. A small tube, known as an IV, may be inserted into a vein so that fluids and medications can be directly introduced into the body. The IV can usually be removed once the patient is stable and able to hold down liquids.
Dietary changes may also be necessary to treat typhoid. Additional fiber may need to be added to the diet in order to add bulk to the stool. This is generally accomplished by giving the patient a fiber supplement, as a liquid diet is generally recommended for those suffering from a typhoid infection. Orange juice and coconut milk are considered to be among the best liquids to consume while treating this condition. Complete bed rest is also recommended during typhoid recovery.
Surgical intervention may sometimes be among the necessary typhoid treatments. In many cases, a procedure known as a cholecystectomy is performed in order to surgically remove the gallbladder. This type of infection frequently becomes centered in the gallbladder, so removal of this organ often aids greatly in the recovery of the patient. If the intestines become perforated or torn due to the typhoid infection, surgery may become necessary in order to repair the damage to the intestines. Any questions or concerns about various typhoid treatments should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
