Understanding Positive Typhoid IgM Results
Understand what a positive typhoid IgM result means, its role in diagnosing typhoid fever, and next steps for effective treatment.
Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 27th Jul, 2025
If you’ve recently received a positive Typhoid IgM test result, you might be feeling confused or worried. Don’t panic—this guide will help you understand what it means, why it happens, and what steps you should take next.
What Is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food or water and is more common in areas with poor sanitation. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:
High fever
Headache and body aches
Weakness and fatigue
Stomach pain
Loss of appetite
Diarrhoea or constipation
If left untreated, typhoid can lead to serious complications, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
What Does a Positive Typhoid IgM Test Mean?
The Typhoid IgM test detects antibodies (IgM) produced by your immune system in response to a Salmonella Typhi infection. A positive IgM result usually means:
1. Recent Infection: IgM antibodies appear early in the infection (usually within a week of symptoms). A positive result suggests you may have an active or recent typhoid infection.
2. Not a Past Infection: Unlike IgG antibodies (which stay in the body long-term), IgM antibodies indicate a current or recent illness.
However, false positives can sometimes occur due to other infections or vaccinations. Your doctor may recommend further tests (like blood culture or Widal test) to confirm the diagnosis.
How Does Typhoid Affect Your Health?
Typhoid fever can make you feel extremely unwell. If untreated, it may lead to:
Severe dehydration from prolonged fever and diarrhoea
Intestinal bleeding or perforation (a medical emergency)
Spread of infection to other organs
Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications and speed up recovery.
To Know More Consult Top Specialists
What Should You Do If Your Test Is Positive?
1. Consult a Doctor Immediately: A positive IgM test requires medical attention. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and may prescribe antibiotics.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids (water, oral rehydration solutions, coconut water) to prevent dehydration.
3. Rest and Eat Light: Avoid heavy, spicy, or oily foods. Stick to easily digestible meals like boiled rice, bananas, and soups.
4. Follow Medication Instructions: Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better. Stopping early can lead to antibiotic resistance.
5. Monitor Symptoms: If fever persists or worsens after 2-3 days of treatment, seek medical help again.
Preventing Typhoid Fever
The best way to avoid typhoid is through prevention:
Get Vaccinated: Typhoid vaccines are available and recommended if you’re travelling to high-risk areas.
Drink Safe Water: Avoid tap water; opt for boiled or bottled water.
Eat Hygienic Food: Avoid street food, raw vegetables, and undercooked meat.
Wash Hands Frequently: Especially before eating and after using the restroom.
When to Book a Doctor’s Appointment?
If you experience:
Persistent high fever (above 102°F)
Severe stomach pain
Blood in stool
Extreme weakness
Don’t wait—consult a doctor immediately. You can easily book a consultation or schedule a test through Apollo 24|7 for quick and reliable healthcare support.
Conclusion
A positive Typhoid IgM result isn’t something to ignore, but with prompt treatment, most people recover fully. Stay informed, follow your doctor’s advice, and take preventive measures to protect yourself and your family.
If you have any concerns, reach out to a healthcare professional—your health always comes first!
Consult Top Specialists
To Know More Consult Top Specialists
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Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Baijnath Budhiram Yadav
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Dombivli
Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli
Dr. Mijanur Rahaman Mondal
General Practitioner
3 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Vishal Kumar H
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, master class in critical care medicine, Advanced Post Graduate Diploma in Non Invasive Cardiology, certificate course in Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke, Certificate course in Common Mental Disorder
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru
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