Why is cholera patient given injections of salt solution?

A cholera patient is given injections of salt solution as part of intravenous fluid therapy to combat the severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by the profuse diarrhea and vomiting associated with cholera. Here's why:

1. Fluid Replenishment:

Cholera causes rapid and significant loss of fluids and electrolytes from the body due to the continuous watery diarrhea. Intravenous (IV) infusion of salt solution helps replenish the lost fluids quickly and effectively. This helps restore the body's fluid balance, preventing dehydration and improving blood pressure.

2. Electrolyte Replacement:

Along with fluids, cholera also leads to the depletion of essential electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. These electrolytes play crucial roles in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, muscle function, and nerve transmission.

The salt solution used for intravenous therapy in cholera patients contains these essential electrolytes in specific concentrations. By providing these electrolytes, IV fluid therapy helps correct electrolyte imbalances and restores normal cellular function.

3. Correction of Acidosis:

Cholera can cause a condition called metabolic acidosis due to the loss of bicarbonate from the body. Acidosis occurs when the pH of the blood becomes abnormally low.

The salt solution used for IV therapy in cholera patients often contains bicarbonate, which helps neutralize the acids and correct the acidosis. This is important for restoring normal bodily functions and preventing complications.

4. Improved Circulation and Oxygen Delivery:

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can affect the body's circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues. IV fluid therapy helps restore the circulating blood volume, improves blood pressure, and enhances tissue perfusion. This ensures adequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the cells, supporting vital organ functions.

5. Prevention of Shock:

Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can lead to hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition characterized by dangerously low blood pressure. Intravenous salt solution helps prevent shock by rapidly restoring fluid volume and maintaining adequate blood pressure.

6. Oral Rehydration Therapy Supplement:

While intravenous fluid therapy is crucial for severe cholera cases, oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is also recommended. ORT involves drinking a solution containing salts, sugar, and water. Intravenous salt solution can be used to supplement ORT when oral rehydration is not feasible or sufficient.

In summary, cholera patients are given injections of salt solution as part of intravenous fluid therapy to rapidly replenish lost fluids, correct electrolyte imbalances, prevent acidosis, improve circulation and oxygen delivery, and prevent shock. Timely administration of IV salt solution is essential for effective management of cholera and preventing life-threatening complications.