Never Get Confused Again – 5 Obvious Differences Between Typhoid And Malaria You Must Know

Typhoid fever and malaria are common illnesses, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas. Both conditions share symptoms, often making it difficult to differentiate.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that however, distinct signs and diagnostic tests help in identifying whether it’s typhoid or malaria.

What Is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi, a bacterium typically contracted through contaminated food or water. It mainly affects the intestines and bloodstream.

What Is Malaria?
Malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite, is a mosquito-borne disease. Spread through mosquito bites, it targets red blood cells and can cause severe complications.

Key Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

• Fever: Persistent high fever that gradually increases.
• Abdominal Pain: Lower abdomen pain is common.
• Weakness and Fatigue: Severe weakness and fatigue are notable.
• Loss of Appetite: Reduced appetite and nausea occur frequently.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Diarrhea can occur, but constipation is typical.
• Headache: Constant, dull headaches are reported.
• Rose Spots: Red spots may appear on the chest or abdomen.

Key Symptoms of Malaria

• Intermittent Fever: Fever episodes cycling every 48–72 hours.
• Chills and Sweats: Severe chills followed by intense sweating.
• Headache: Intense headaches often accompany fever cycles.
• Muscle Pain: Generalized body aches are common.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Extreme fatigue occurs during malaria attacks.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Loss of appetite and vomiting are frequent.

How the Two Conditions Differ
Typhoid presents a gradual fever, while malaria shows cyclic fever spikes. Typhoid symptoms develop slowly, whereas malaria symptoms appear suddenly after a mosquito bite. Gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea are more associated with typhoid.

Diagnostic Tests and Treatment
Blood cultures or the Widal test detect typhoid, treated with antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or azithromycin. Malaria is confirmed via blood smears or rapid diagnostic tests, treated with antimalarial drugs like ACTs or chloroquine.

Although symptoms overlap, recognizing differences in fever patterns and diagnostics is key. Seek medical care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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