Cholera (intestinal bacterial infection)
About Cholera (intestinal bacterial infection)
Bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae within the small intestine producing watery diarrhea. It usually occurs in epidemics. Most commonly the disease is associated with poor sanitation. The illness begins suddenly with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The symptoms can be severe leading to dehydration and death.Symptoms
Sudden onset of watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, vomiting, lethargy, excessive thirst, low urine output.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Many times the disease is made clinically without specific testing. The bacteria can be identified in the stool or blood. Blood tests to identify the extent of the dehydration and presence of electrolyte abnormalities are frequently done.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Depending on the symptoms, rehydration will be given orally or intravenously. Antibiotics may shorten the course of the disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed an oral rehydration solution consisting of sugar and electrolytes saving numerous lives internationally.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cholera (intestinal bacterial infection).