Healthopedia.com - Your Health
Encyclopedia

Set Homepage Email Page Favorites      

 
  Home
  Health Centers
  Medical Encyclopedia
  Drugs & Medications
  Diseases & Conditions 
  Medical Symptoms
  Medical Tests & Exams
  Surgery & Procedures 
  Injuries & Wounds
  Diet & Nutrition
  Special Topics
  Pictures & Images      


Google
 
Web Healthopedia.com

You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Cholera
      Category : Health Centers > Infections (Infectious Diseases)

Cholera

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


Cholera is an infection of the intestines caused by bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. This infection results in large amounts of diarrhea.

What is going on in the body?

A person can develop cholera by eating or drinking food or water that has been contaminated by the cholera germ. Cholera occurs in most parts of the world. In the U.S., most cases are seen either in:

  • travelers from other countries
  • people who have eaten food imported from another country
  • In some southern states in the U.S., cholera can be caught by eating raw shellfish. Cholera can cause severe dehydration, which may result in death if the person is not treated.

    What are the causes and risks of the infection?

    Cholera is caused by eating or drinking contaminated food or water that contains Vibrio cholerae bacteria.


       

    Next section

       

    Cholera: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Danielle Zerr, MD
    Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
    Date Reviewed: 02/08/02









    Content provided by The Patient Marketing Group, Inc.

    Copyright © 2009 Healthopedia.com All Rights reserved.
    About Us | Help/FAQ | Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy | Advertising Policy | Accessibility | Terms of Use
    Contact Us | Link to Us

    HONcode accreditation seal.

    We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.


    The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call your local emergency number for all medical emergencies. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
    Page Last Updated: 6th April, 2009