How long does oral rehydration therapy take to work for cholera?

Cholera causes profuse watery diarrhoea and can remove fluid and salts faster than the body can replace them. Oral rehydration solution uses a specific balance of glucose and electrolytes to help the intestine absorb fluid. It does not remove the infection itself, and improvement in thirst or alertness does not mean the diarrhoea has stopped. A health professional may decide that intravenous fluids or antibiotics are also needed.

Start the recommended oral rehydration solution promptly and take frequent small sips, including after loose stools, following the product or clinician instructions. Use correctly prepared solution; do not improvise the salt and sugar balance or mix it with unsafe water. Continue breastfeeding if applicable. Avoid relying on plain water alone, and ask a clinician about food, medicines and treatment for children or older adults.

Cholera with ongoing watery diarrhoea is an emergency risk because dehydration can develop quickly. Seek urgent care for inability to drink, repeated vomiting, very little urine, extreme thirst, dry mouth, sunken eyes, dizziness, confusion, unusual sleepiness, cold hands or collapse. Do not wait for oral fluids to appear effective if losses continue; emergency services may need to give fluids through a vein.

Ask how much solution to take, how to prepare and store it safely, and which signs mean you need intravenous fluids. Confirm whether testing, antibiotics, isolation advice or care for household contacts is needed.