Cholera

Cholera

Description of cholera

Cholera is an infectious disease, that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Today, a rare disease in developed countries, Nonetheless, caused severe epidemics in the past. Cholera remains a serious public health problem throughout the world in underdeveloped countries. If left untreated cholera, it can lead to death within a few hours.

Causes of cholera

Cholera bacteria vыzыvaet Vibrio cholera, which release a toxin, causing rapid loss of fluid in the small intestine. Cholera is spread by ingestion of food or water, contaminated by fecal waste. Typically, cholera is common in countries, no normal wastewater.

Risk factors for cholera

Factors, that may increase the risk of infection include cholera:

• Eating contaminated food or liquids;
• Consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish;
• A trip to the region, that spread cholera;
• Blood group O – nine-fold increase in the risk of infection;
• Weakened immune system;
• Low levels of gastric acid.

Symptoms of cholera

Symptoms of cholera are developing rapidly and can be very severe. These include:

• Sudden painless, watery diarrhea without blood or pus;
• Vomiting;
• Dehydration;
• Thirst;
• Muscle cramps.

The severity of symptoms ranges from mild, short-lived diarrhea to shock and death due to extreme fluid loss. Most of the symptoms observed 1-3 the day after infection.

Diagnosis of cholera

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. It is important to inform your doctor about any recent travel to areas, where cholera is common. If it is suspected, that cholera patients, They will be selected stool samples and blood.

Treatment of cholera

Fluid – infuzionnaya therapy

The first priority in treating cholera is to replace fluids and electrolytes, lost due to diarrhea. In severe cases, dehydration can be fatal. Solutions for hydration can be administered orally or via IV.

Antibiotics for the treatment of cholera

Antibiotics help to reduce the course and severity of disease. They may also appoint persons, in contact with a patient with cholera, to prevent the disease.

Prevention of Cholera

Careful selection of food

You can prevent cholera, avoiding the consumption of contaminated food and fluids in areas the spread of cholera. Currently, these areas include parts of some countries and continents:

• Asia;
• Africa;
• India;
• South America;
• Central America.

When traveling in these areas:

• Eat only well-cooked food, which is served hot;
• Do not eat raw or undercooked shellfish;
• Avoid eating salads;
• Avoid raw vegetables raw;
• Carry oral rehydration solution and train, how to use it in case of severe diarrhea.