Question

Patients suffering from cholera are given saline drop as

• A. Na${}^{+}$ stops transmission of nerve impluse and hence sensation of pain
• B. Nacl supplies energy
• C. Na${}^{+}$ helps retain water in the body
• D. NaCl functions as fuel for cellular activities

Answer 1

The correct option is C Na${}^{+}$ helps retain water in the body

Cholera is an infection of the small intestine by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Symptoms include large amounts of watery diarrhoea that lasts a few days, vomiting and muscle cramps may also occur. Diarrhoea can be so severe that it leads within hours to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Patients suffering from cholera are given saline drop such as Ringer's lactate solution which contains sodium. Excess sodium makes the body hold extra fluids in the cells because of the osmotic gradient. Hence, sodium helps retain water in the body.

So, the correct answer is 'Na+ helps retain water in the body'.