Beware Of Cholera! Read About The Signs And Symptoms Of Cholera To Avoid This Public Health Hazard

The severe diarrheal illness known as cholera, brought on by the Vibrio cholera bacteria, is still a primary global health concern, especially in places with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. It spreads primarily through tainted food and water. Even with its long history, cholera is still a serious public health risk, particularly in areas with poor access to sanitary facilities and water treatment. 

From 2011 to 2016, confirmed cholera cases were identified in at least one year of the 5- or 6-year period in the countries included. Surveillance for cholera exists in most countries, but cases are not always reported. India reported the highest number of confirmed cases, with a mean of 5964 annually. From 1 January 2024 to 28 April 2024, 583 cholera cases were reported in India (577 cases) and Bangladesh (6 cases). Severe electrolyte imbalances brought on by rapid fluid loss can cause cramping in the muscles, an accelerated heartbeat, and, in extreme situations, shock and even death if treatment is not received.

Read ahead to learn about cholera in detail, as well as the signs and symptoms of cholera, emphasising the importance of early detection and prompt medical intervention.

Table Of Contents

1. What Is Cholera?

2. 10 Signs And Symptoms Of Cholera Disease

3. What Are The Cholera Treatment Options Available?

4. Expert’s Advice 

5. The Final Say

6. FAQs

7. References

What Is Cholera?

Acute diarrheal sickness, or cholera, is caused by an intestinal infection with the Vibrio cholera bacteria. The infection is often mild or asymptomatic, but in severe cases, it may cause acute watery diarrhoea and vomiting, leading to dehydration. The disease is most commonly spread through consuming contaminated water or food.

Also Read: 6 Foods To Avoid That Can Weaken Your Immune System 

10 Signs And Symptoms Of Cholera Disease

The ten signs and symptoms of cholera disease are:

1. Watery Diarrhea

Cholera often starts with sudden, watery diarrhoea. This diarrhoea differs from regular diarrhoea because it's very runny and pale, looking like rice water. It can happen many times a day and cause excess fluid loss, which can quickly lead to dehydration. If you notice frequent, watery stools, it is essential to seek medical help immediately, especially if you live in or have travelled to an area where cholera is common.

2. Vomiting

Along with diarrhoea, cholera can cause frequent vomiting. This can happen even without eating or drinking anything. Vomiting, combined with diarrhoea, makes it hard for your body to keep any fluids, leading to rapid dehydration. If you are experiencing both vomiting and watery diarrhoea, it is crucial to get medical attention right away to avoid severe dehydration and other complications.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration is one of the most common and fatal symptoms of cholera. As your body loses a lot of fluids through diarrhoea and vomiting, you can become thirsty, have a dry mouth and skin, and produce very little or no urine. Severe dehydration can cause extreme weakness, confusion, and even unconsciousness. Drinking plenty of safe water or oral rehydration solutions is vital until you can get medical care.

4. Rapid Heart Rate

A fast heartbeat is a sign that your body is struggling to cope with the fluid loss from cholera. When dehydrated, your blood volume drops and your heart has to pump faster to circulate blood. If you or someone you know has a faster heartbeat along with other cholera symptoms, it's a sign that the condition is severe and medical treatment is needed immediately.

5. Low Blood Pressure

With severe dehydration, your blood pressure can drop dangerously low. This can make you feel dizzy or faint, especially when standing up. Low blood pressure happens because there is insufficient fluid in your blood vessels to maintain normal pressure. If you feel lightheaded, weak, or have fainted, it is important to seek urgent medical attention, as low blood pressure can be life-threatening.

Also Read: 10 Home Remedies For Low Blood Pressure 

6. Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps are common in cholera because the body loses essential minerals like potassium and sodium. These cramps can be excruciating and usually affect the legs, arms, and stomach. Drinking oral rehydration solutions that contain these electrolytes can help, but severe cases may need medical treatment to restore the balance of minerals in the body.

Also Read: 5 Common Causes Of Muscle Cramps With Treatment & Prevention Tips

7. Dry Mouth And Skin

As dehydration sets in, your mouth and skin can become parched. Your lips may crack, and your skin can lose its elasticity, making it feel stiff and appear wrinkled. These are clear signs that your body is running out of fluids. If you notice these symptoms, drinking fluids immediately and seeking medical help is crucial to prevent severe dehydration.

8. Sunken Eyes

In severe dehydration, your eyes can look sunken or hollow. This happens because the tissues around the eyes lose fluid and shrink. Sunken eyes indicate that the body is dehydrated and needs fluids urgently. This symptom, along with dry mouth, dry skin, and other signs of dehydration, should be treated as a medical emergency.

9. Reduced Urine Output

When you have cholera, you might notice you are not urinating much or your urine is very dark. This is because your body is trying to conserve water due to the severe fluid loss from diarrhoea and vomiting. Little to no urine output is a serious sign of dehydration. Drinking fluids and seeking medical treatment can help restore average urine production and prevent further complications.

10. Extreme Thirst

Feeling incredibly thirsty is a natural response to the fluid loss caused by cholera. Your body is signalling that it needs more water to function correctly. While it is crucial to drink fluids if you feel very thirsty, in the case of cholera, oral rehydration solutions are better than plain water because they also replace lost salts and minerals. Extreme thirst should not be ignored; medical help should be sought promptly.

What Are The Cholera Treatment Options Available?

After learning about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of cholera, let's have a look at the Cholera treatment options:

1. Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)

ORT is the primary treatment for cholera. It involves drinking a solution of water mixed with salts and sugars to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. ORT packets are widely available and can be prepared at home. This method is adequate for most cases of cholera, especially if started early. It helps prevent dehydration and can save lives.

2. Intravenous Rehydration

In severe cases of cholera, where patients cannot drink enough fluids due to vomiting or are in shock, intravenous (IV) rehydration is necessary. This involves administering fluids directly into the bloodstream through an IV drip. IV rehydration quickly restores fluid balance and stabilises the patient. It is essential for treating severe dehydration and preventing complications.

3. Antibiotics

Antibiotics can shorten the duration of cholera symptoms and reduce the severity of the disease. Common antibiotics used include doxycycline, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin. Antibiotic treatment is particularly beneficial for severe cases or patients with underlying health conditions. However, not all cholera cases require antibiotics; a healthcare professional should guide them.

4. Zinc Supplementation

Zinc supplements are often given to children with cholera to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhoea. Zinc-rich foods help improve the immune response and intestinal function. It is typically administered in conjunction with ORT. Zinc supplementation is a simple and cost-effective addition to cholera treatment that can significantly benefit young patients.

Also Read: 9 Incredible Foods High in Zinc: Boost Your Health Naturally

5. Safe Water And Sanitation

Access to safe and clean drinking water and proper sanitation facilities is crucial for preventing the spread of cholera and supporting recovery. Boiling water, using water purification tablets, and maintaining good hygiene practices can help prevent further infections. Educating communities about safe water and sanitation practices is essential for long-term cholera control.

6. Nutritional Support

Patients recovering from cholera need proper nutrition to regain strength and health. This includes a balanced diet with adequate calories, vitamins, and minerals. In severe cases, nutritional support may involve specific dietary plans or supplements to address deficiencies caused by the illness and improve recovery outcomes.

Also Read: Top 8 Ways To Improve Nutritional Value Of Indian Foods Naturally! 

7. Monitoring And Supportive Care

Monitoring vital signs, fluid intake, and output is essential for managing cholera. Supportive care, which includes keeping a clean environment and offering comfort measures, enhances patient outcomes. Healthcare professionals should look for any indications of problems in their patients and modify treatment as needed. 

8. Education And Community Engagement

Educating patients and communities about cholera prevention, symptoms, and treatment is crucial. Community engagement programs can promote awareness, improve hygiene practices, and encourage timely medical intervention. Effective education helps reduce the spread of cholera and supports better health outcomes.

9. Vaccination

Oral cholera vaccines (OCVs) can provide temporary immunity and are helpful during outbreaks or in high-risk areas. Vaccination campaigns can help control the spread of cholera, especially in regions with recurrent outbreaks. OCVs are a vital tool in the overall strategy to prevent and manage cholera.

10. Rapid Diagnostic Testing

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for cholera can quickly identify the presence of Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Prompt diagnosis facilitates timely treatment and aids in managing epidemics. In environments with limited resources, where laboratory facilities may be few, RDTs are especially helpful. Quick and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective cholera management.

Expert’s Advice

Cholera is a disease usually spread through contaminated water. It can cause diarrhoea and dehydration. If not given proper attention or left untreated, cholera can lead to death within a few hours, even in healthy people. Death from severe dehydration can be prevented with simple and inexpensive rehydration solutions. Drinking water with ORS or a salt-sugar mixture at least 3-4 times daily is essential to avoid diarrhoea and fatigue. If symptoms persist for longer, contact your doctor for further examination and treatment.

                                                                                            Health Expert
Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

This blog discussed cholera symptoms and treatment; however, know that this is a preventable and treatable disease that continues to pose a crucial public health threat in many parts of the world. Recognising the signs and symptoms of cholera is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Individuals and communities can prevent cholera outbreaks by knowing how it spreads along with its risk elements. 

Preventing cholera still comes down to having clean water, good sanitation and proper hygiene. When an outbreak happens, quick medical help and rehydration treatment can save lives and lessen the effects of this harmful illness.

FAQs

1. How are cholera and typhoid caused? 

Cholera and typhoid are caused by consuming food, beverages, or water tainted by the excrement or urine of infected individuals.

2. How severe is cholera?

Cholera can range from mild to severe. Mild cases may involve moderate diarrhoea and dehydration, while severe cases can lead to life-threatening dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Without treatment, severe cholera can cause death within hours.

3. What should I do if I suspect I have cholera?

If you suspect you have cholera, seek medical attention immediately. To prevent dehydration, start drinking oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or safe fluids. Avoid consuming potentially contaminated food and water, and follow medical advice promptly.

4. Is there a vaccine for cholera?

Yes, oral cholera vaccines (OCVs) are available and provide temporary immunity against cholera. Vaccination is recommended for travellers to high-risk areas and during outbreaks. However, vaccination should be combined with other preventive measures such as safe water and sanitation.

References

• https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/cholera/

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16636-cholera

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cholera/symptoms-causes/syc-20355287

• https://www.metropolisindia.com/blog/preventive-healthcare/understanding-cholera-symptoms-treatment-vaccine-and-prevention

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