Health's Book

Definition

Cholera is an infection of the small intestine that causes a large amount of watery diarrhea.

Symptoms

* Abdominal cramps
* Dry mucus membranes or mouth
* Dry skin
* Excessive thirst
* Glassy or sunken eyes
* Lack of tears
* Lethargy
* Low urine output
* Nausea
* Rapid dehydration
* Rapid pulse (heart rate)
* Sunken "soft spots" (fontanelles) in infants
* Unusual sleepiness or tiredness
* Vomiting
* Watery diarrhea that starts suddenly
o Diarrhea has a "fishy" odor
o Stool looks like water with flecks of rice in it

Note: Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.