Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. When a person ingests contaminated food or water, the bacteria can enter the small intestine and begin to produce a toxin called cholera toxin.
Cholera toxin works by binding to the cells lining the small intestine, causing them to release large amounts of electrolytes and water. This leads to a significant increase in the volume of fluid in the intestine, resulting in watery diarrhea.
The diarrhea caused by cholera is often described as "rice-water" diarrhea because it has a pale, cloudy appearance similar to water in which rice has been rinsed. The large volume of fluid lost in the diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Cholera can also cause vomiting, which can further contribute to fluid loss and dehydration. Overall, the combination of diarrhea and vomiting can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which can be fatal if not properly managed.