water – open cageWhat are the symptoms of Cholera? is there Treatment for Cholera?
Cholera is a disease/ infection of the small intestine. It is possible to die from the effects of Cholera and no one is immune.
The main symptoms of Cholera are extensive vomiting and diarrhoea which is usually painless and will produce a clear liquid. Diarrhoea is often described as having a ‘fishy’ odour.
Symptoms of Cholera will begin quickly after infection takes place, usually within one to five days.
How is Cholera Passed on?
Cholera is similar to food poisoning in both effects and transmission. Eating contaminated food or drink will pass the infection on. The bacteria which cause Cholera live in the environment, but it is when these bacteria multiple and is then ingested that Cholera is contracted.
Complications of Cholera
The biggest complication of Cholera is dehydration. An adult with the infection can lose between many litres of fluid per day; any fluid that is replaced will usually be lost immediately.
One complication of severe dehydration is electrolyte imbalance. Losing too many potassium electrolytes for example will cause muscle weakness and wastage.
What is the Treatment for Cholera?
Treatment for Cholera will start with treating the dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhoea. Replacing lost fluid is the first step to recovery; this can either be through drinking or through an intravenous drip. Electrolytes can also be restored through a drip or through powder sachets to mix with water.
Antibiotic treatment can also be used to fight the infection which causes Cholera, again this is usually given intravenously.
Can everyone get Cholera?
Cholera can affect anyone at any time from any race, it does not discriminate. There are certain circumstances where Cholera is more likely to be caught: Children between the ages of 2 and 4, and people who have O type blood are more susceptible to contracting Cholera than others.
In developing countries the risk for contracting Cholera is higher. because drinking water is often untreated or not treated to the level which is safe, bacteria can grow and multiply.
Vaccine
There are many countries which have oral vaccines for Cholera available. this will greatly reduce any chance you may have of contracting the infection.
Prevention of Cholera
All drinking water should be sterilized/ purified to reduce any bacteria which may be around. When abroad stocking up on bottled water is the best way to ensure you have a fresh clean supply available.
Sources:
- · NHS
- · BBC Health
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.