Yesterday the Lebanese Ministry of Health announced the first death since cholera Since the disease was monitored in October, and about it, “The Seventh Day” provides all medical information related to this disease from causes, symptoms and treatment methods, according to the Mayocinc website.
What is cholera?
Cholera is a bacterial disease spread through contaminated water and can be fatal within hours.
What are the symptoms of cholera infection?
The symptoms of most cases of cholera are simple or moderate diarrhea which is difficult to differentiate from diarrhea caused by any other health problem, while others develop severe symptoms of cholera, often appearing within several days of infection and the symptoms are:
Diarrhea, which occurs suddenly and exposes the patient to a loss of large proportions of fluid in the body, and is pale in color.
Nausea and vomiting, vomiting occurs early in the infection and can last for a short time.
Dehydration, which occurs hours after the onset of symptoms and varies in severity from mild to severe, and causes weight loss of 10% or more, which means severe dehydration.
Loss of body balance due to dehydration.
Painful muscle cramps, caused by a large loss of potassium and salt in the body.
What are the causes of cholera?
It is caused by a type of bacterium called Vibrio cholerae, and there are a few factors that cause cholera, including:
Contaminated water sources are the main source of infection, as “Vibrio cholera” bacteria are found in:
Soil surface or well water.
Raw seafood can increase the risk of cholera.
Raw fruits and vegetables are a frequent source of cholera infection in areas where cholera is present.
Cereals, rice, and other grains grown in places where cholera is common can increase the chances of infection.
What are the complications of cholera infection?
It is considered one of the fastest killer diseases in the event that the body quickly loses a lot of fluids and dehydration and associated complications are as follows:
– Causes a decrease in blood circulation.
Low blood sugar due to inability to eat.
Low levels of potassium, the low percentage of which affects the nerves of the body and poses a threat to life.
Kidney failure is one of the complications due to the accumulation of excessive amounts of fluid in the body.
What tips to prevent cholera infection?
– Wash your hands often with soap and water.
Only drink safe water.
Eat well-cooked food and avoid street vendors’ food.
Avoid raw or improperly cooked fish and seafood.
Stick to fruits and vegetables that you can peel on your own.
What is the treatment for cholera?
Replacement of fluids lost by the body.
When taking intravenous fluids, in the event of severe dehydration, patients may need intravenous fluids.
Antibiotics, to reduce diarrhea and severe cholera symptoms.
Take zinc supplements, as research has confirmed that zinc can reduce diarrhea and shorten the duration of the infection.
