Final answer:
Cholera induces watery feces due to a cholera toxin produced by Vibrio cholerae; this toxin increases cellular cAMP levels, leading to ion secretion and subsequent water loss into the intestinal lumen, causing dehydration.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Cholera Causes Watery Feces
Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, produces cholera toxin which disrupts the normal physiological process of intestinal epithelial cells. The toxin modifies cell signaling pathways leading to the secretion of substantial quantities of electrolytes and water into the intestinal lumen. The increased levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) within the infected cells trigger the opening of chloride channels. This ion movement causes an osmotic imbalance, drawing water into the gut, and resulting in the characteristic watery diarrhea, often described as "rice-water stool." This rapid fluid loss can lead to serious dehydration and electrolyte imbalance if not promptly treated, frequently necessitating intravenous fluids and leading to placement of patients on specialized cots for fluid loss monitoring.