Dehydration

Dehydration can occur within hours of the onset of cholera symptoms and can range from moderate to severe. A 10% or more loss in body weight suggests severe dehydration. Irritability, weariness, sunken eyes, a dry mouth, intense thirst, dry and shriveled skin that is reluctant to bounce back when pressed into a fold, little or no peeing, low blood pressure, and an irregular pulse are all signs and symptoms of cholera dehydration. Dehydration can cause a fast loss of minerals in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance in your body. This is referred to as an electrolyte imbalance.

Dehydration can only result from the combination of diarrhea and vomiting. Dehydration occurs when your body does not have enough water to operate correctly and your electrolytes are imbalanced. In the case of cholera symptoms, this is due to your body releasing fluids through vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration can cause headaches, diarrhea, and tiredness, but it can also be fatal if left untreated, as your body can just shut down in severe dehydration. It can cause shock and even death.