Which electrolyte imbalance is typically associated with cholera infection?

Cholera infection leads to significant gastrointestinal fluid loss, primarily due to severe diarrhea. This loss of fluids also results in the depletion of key electrolytes in the body, particularly sodium, which can lead to hyponatremia, a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood. In cholera, the osmotic balance of the intestinal content is disrupted, causing an excessive osmotic gradient that draws water into the intestines. As a result, the patient loses not only water but also sodium, potentially causing hypovolemic shock and electrolyte disturbances.

In the context of cholera, the impaired absorption of sodium alongside the substantial loss from the gastrointestinal tract directly contributes to the development of hyponatremia. This is a critical aspect of managing patients with cholera, as restoration of sodium levels, along with rehydration, is essential to prevent complications associated with severe electrolyte imbalances.

While other electrolyte abnormalities might be present due to dehydration or other underlying conditions, hyponatremia stands out as the imbalance most typically and directly associated with cholera infection due to the intense fluid and electrolyte loss experienced by affected individuals.