Cholera: Know Its Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Cholera, is an acute sickness caused by tiny germs called Vibrio cholerae. It is the infection of Small Intestine. These germs can make their way into our bodies through contaminated water or food. Imagine these germs as tiny troublemakers that can make us really sick if we’re not careful. Once inside, they can cause watery diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration – that means our bodies lose a lot of water.

What is Cholera?

Cholera has been nicknamed the “blue death” because a person’s skin may turn bluish-gray from extreme loss of fluids. Cholera is like a sneaky ninja that strikes where there’s not enough clean water or good sanitation. It often happens in crowded places where hygiene is a bit shaky. The symptoms can be pretty scary, but with the right treatment, like drinking special solutions to replace lost fluids, people can get better.

Causes of Cholera

• Contaminated Water: Drinking water from sources contaminated with sewage or human waste is a significant risk factor for cholera transmission. Poor sanitation and inadequate sewage disposal contribute to the spread of the bacterium.
• Contaminated Food: Consuming raw or undercooked seafood, especially shellfish, that originated from contaminated waters can lead to cholera infection. Additionally, fruits and vegetables washed with contaminated water may also pose a risk.
• Person-to-Person Transmission: Cholera can spread directly from person to person in crowded and unsanitary conditions. Poor hygiene practices, such as inadequate handwashing, contribute to the transmission of the bacterium.
• Hygiene Practices: Poor handwashing and hygiene increase the risk of Vibrio cholerae transmission.

Also Read: Chlamydia

Symptoms of Cholera

• Watery Diarrhea: The hallmark symptom of cholera is profuse, watery diarrhea. The diarrhea is often described as “rice-water” due to its appearance.
• Vomiting: Patients with cholera may experience severe vomiting, leading to dehydration.
• Dehydration: Rapid loss of fluids through diarrhea and vomiting can result in dehydration. This can lead to symptoms such as dry skin, sunken eyes, and a rapid heartbeat.
• Muscle Cramps: Dehydration can cause muscle cramps and weakness.
• Low Blood Pressure: Severe cases of cholera can lead to a drop in blood pressure, potentially causing shock.

Diagnosis of Cholera

• Clinical Evaluation: A healthcare professional will assess the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and potential exposure to contaminated water or food.
• Stool Culture: Laboratory tests, such as stool culture, can confirm the presence of Vibrio cholerae in a patient’s fecal sample. This helps in identifying the specific strain of the bacterium.
• Rapid Diagnostic Tests: Rapid tests may be available to detect cholera toxin or the presence of Vibrio cholerae in stool samples, providing quicker results compared to traditional culture methods.
• Medical History: Consider patient’s travel history and recent contacts for a comprehensive assessment.
• Physical Examination: Evaluate dehydration signs, including skin condition, sunken eyes, and rapid heartbeat.
• Blood Tests: Conduct blood tests to assess electrolyte levels and dehydration severity.
• Imaging Studies: In severe cases, imaging may be used to evaluate fluid levels in the intestines.
• Differential Diagnosis: Rule out other causes of severe diarrhea to confirm cholera diagnosis.
• Clinical Criteria: Apply World Health Organization (WHO) clinical case definitions for cholera diagnosis.

Treatment of Cholera

• Rehydration Therapy: The primary focus of cholera treatment is rehydration. Oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids are administered to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Antibiotics: In severe cases, antibiotics such as tetracycline or azithromycin may be prescribed to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.
• Zinc Supplements: Zinc supplements may be recommended, especially in children, to help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea.
• Isolation and Hygiene Measures: Infected individuals should be isolated to prevent the spread of the bacterium. Adequate hygiene practices, including handwashing, are essential in controlling the transmission of cholera.

Prevention and Control of Cholera

• Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to clean water and improving sanitation facilities are crucial in preventing cholera outbreaks.
• Vaccination: Cholera vaccines are available and may be recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as those living in cholera-endemic areas or during outbreaks.
• Food Safety: Practicing safe food handling and avoiding the consumption of contaminated water and food can reduce the risk of cholera.
• Education and Awareness: Public awareness campaigns on proper hygiene practices, sanitation, and the importance of clean water can contribute to cholera prevention.

cholera is a preventable and treatable disease, but it remains a significant public health concern in many parts of the world. Understanding its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial in effectively managing and controlling cholera outbreaks. Public health efforts focused on improving sanitation, providing clean water, and promoting vaccination can contribute to the global efforts to eliminate cholera.

Disclaimer: All the information provided in this article for only for informative purpose, Please consult your physician if any of the causes arises.

Also Read: Shri Ram Mandir (Ayodhya)