Infection of the small intestine that manifests with very abundant watery diarrhea. Considered non-inflammatory diarrhea, because it does not cause damage to the bowel wall.
It is caused by a bacterial infection that causes an increase in the water expelled by the cells of the intestine. The most characteristic bacterium is Vibrio cholerae.
The abundant watery diarrhea is accompanied by other symptoms derived from it: great thirst, dehydration with dry skin, absence of tears, poor urine production, rapid pulse, sunken eyes, drowsiness and lethargy. It is not usually accompanied by nausea, fever or abdominal pain.
It is diagnosed by clinical history and physical examination, laboratory tests, and blood and stool cultures.
The aim of treatment is to replace lost fluid, either orally or intravenously, depending on the severity of the case. When there is fever, significant dehydration or serious general malaise, treatment is accompanied by intravenous antibiotics. The evolution should be closely followed.
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