It is an infection of the small intestine that causes very watery diarrhoea. It is called non-inflammatory diarrhoea because it does not damage the intestinal wall.
It is caused by a bacterial infection that makes the cells of the bowel leak more water. The most common bacterium is Vibrio cholerae.
The watery diarrhoea is accompanied by other symptoms: extreme thirst, dehydration with dry skin, lack of tears, poor urine production, rapid heartbeat, sunken eyes, lethargy and drowsiness. It is not usually associated with fever or abdominal pain.
It is diagnosed by taking a detailed medical history and performing a full physical examination, laboratory tests and blood and stool cultures.
The aim of treatment is to replace lost fluids, either orally or through an intravenous line, depending on the severity of the condition. If the diarrhoea is accompanied by fever, severe dehydration or general unwellness, treatment will include intravenous antibiotics. The condition should be closely monitored.
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