Untreated cholera can lead to severe and rapid dehydration, causing a patient to lose 10-15 liters of fluid daily. This profound fluid loss can quickly progress to shock and, in severe cases, death within hours.
Beyond critical dehydration, cholera can precipitate various health complications, including:
* Hypotension (low blood pressure)
* Hypokalemia (low blood potassium)
* Increased heart rate
* Dry mouth
* Reduced skin elasticity
The severe dehydration resulting from untreated cholera is a serious medical emergency that can further lead to life-threatening conditions such as:
* Kidney failure
* Shock
* Coma
* Death