• 17 August, 2025
• By Admin

Early Signs Of Typhoid Fever: When To Get A Widal Test?

Typhoid fever is an everyday infection in India, and it is increased during the monsoon season when the contamination of food and water is high. The controversy to this is that its initial symptoms are similar to those of flu, malaria or dengue. Early detection of the initial symptoms and the initiation of the appropriate diagnostic test, mainly the Widal test, is the key towards treatment.

Early Signs of Typhoid Fever

Typhoid is a gradual illness and takes days to develop. Be alert to the following red flags:

• Persistent fever: Temperature mostly increases slowly, and the scale can vary between 103-104°F.
• Abdominal discomfort: There may be pain, bloating or constipation.
• Headache and fatigue: You may feel drained or weak.
• Loss of appetite: The level of hunger goes down in most patients.
• Dry cough – Sometimes appears in the early phase.

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As the disease advances, diarrhoea, rash (rose spots) and extreme weakness can be seen.

When to Consider a Widal Test

As part of your workup, the Widal test may be indicated when you experience a fever of above 5-7days duration, especially with abdominal symptoms. Antibodies against Salmonella typhi, which are the ones that cause typhoid, are detected in this test.

• Within a few days of the onset of illness, usually after the first week of illness, when antibodies can be detected.
• An increase in titre of O and H antigen is a sign of active infection.
• One of the ways used to distinguish between typhoid and malaria, dengue or viral fevers.

However, since false positives can occur, doctors often advise a blood culture for confirmation. (read more in What is a Blood Culture Test? Detecting 

Why Early Testing Is Important

• Untreated typhoid may also lead to intestinal bleeding or perforation
• The use of antibiotics is very effective when used early enough
• Due to the similarity of the causes of fever (dengue and malaria), proper testing will help in providing the appropriate course of treatment.

Typhoid often overlaps with other infectious diseases. For example, symptoms like prolonged fever and weakness can mimic Oliguria (Low Urine Output): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment or dehydration-related illnesses. This makes proper testing even more important.

Final Word

The early signs of typhoid can be tricky, but persistent fever with abdominal discomfort should never be ignored. A timely Widal test — guided by your doctor — helps confirm diagnosis and ensures correct treatment.

If you or a family member has had a fever for more than a week, don’t delay. Seek medical help, get tested, and follow the prescribed treatment. Early action can prevent serious complications and speed up recovery.