Cholera is a disease characterized by severe, watery diarrhea.
Signs and symptoms of cholera include severe, watery diarrhea that comes on rapidly and resembles rice water. The condition can rapidly lead to dehydration and associated symptoms and signs include
- rapid heart rate,
- dry mouth,
- lethargy,
- low blood pressure,
- vomiting, and
- wrinkled skin.
The diarrhea is usually painless. Symptoms can vary in severity among affected people. If not treated with fluids and electrolytes, the dehydration that results may be life-threatening.
Cause of cholera
Infection with the bacteria known as Vibrio cholerae causes cholera. The disease usually spreads among humans by contaminated water, although it can also spread by foods contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacteria, particularly raw shellfish.
Other cholera symptoms and signs
- Dry Mouth
- Lethargy
- Low Blood Pressure
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Severe, Watery Diarrhea That Looks Like Rice Water
- Vomiting
- Wrinkled Skin
Main Article on Cholera Symptoms and Signs
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