Cholera is a bacterial infection brought about by a microorganism present in water. An individual who becomes seriously sick with cholera might end up with dehydration rapidly due to frequent episodes of vomiting and explosive diarrhea. Not all who acquire cholera become sick, but those who become sick might be at risk for death if not promptly treated.
What are the indications?
The distinct signs of a severe case of cholera is frequent episodes of explosive, watery diarrhea along with leg cramps and vomiting. The rapid fluid loss can quickly lead to severe dehydration.
The usual indications of dehydration include:
- Sunken eyes
- Skin turgor
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heart rate
- Weight loss
Shock can also occur once the fluid loss causes the circulatory system to collapse since there is not enough blood.
What is the cause?
The Vibrio cholerae bacteria is responsible for cholera. An individual can become infected by ingesting contaminated water. The bacteria can also spread via foods that were washed or prepared using contaminated water. In addition, it can also be acquired via raw or poorly cooked shellfish.
The bacteria can impair the digestive tract by releasing toxin that disrupts the control and balance of fluid retention of the mucosal cells inside the intestines.
Management of cholera
Death brought about by cholera is due to dehydration, thus it is vital to manage the condition by replacing the lost fluids in the body.
This involves oral rehydration solutions that include large amounts of water infused by a combination of salt and sugar.
Those who are at risk for shock require intravenous fluids to hasten the rate in which the bodies are replenished.
If an individual is seriously sick, antibiotics are given to eliminate the bacteria as quickly as possible, so both the need for fluids and time that the bacteria has been present in the stool can be reduced.