Dehydration took place when the body loses more fluid than consumed. This took place for several reasons; however, the major thing is vomiting or excessive diarrhea. When left untreated, dehydration can be dangerous or severe because your body relies on water to carry out the basic function.
Rehydration is defined as the replenishment of water and electrolyte lost during dehydration. It can be carried out through mouth which is called oral rehydration, or through adding electrolytes and fluids directly into the bloodstream called intravenous rehydration.
- Oral Rehydration
Oral rehydration therapy is defined as a treatment available for treating the problem of dehydration. It involves consuming a beverage containing sugar, water, and electrolyte, particularly sodium and potassium. The beverage prepared from such things is called an oral rehydration solution or ORS.
The main goal of therapy is to replenish the body fluid level which is typically used to treat moderate dehydration because of vomiting, diarrhea, and other conditions.
- Is oral rehydration therapy safe for children?
Oral rehydration therapy is safe for children which are commonly used to cure diarrhea-related dehydration in children. Compared to adults, children are more prone to dehydration because of diarrhea. They include a higher metabolic rate which means their bodies quickly use water. Children might not be able to identify thirst or hydrate themselves.
Factors such as excessive sweating, burns, or low consumption of water can further enhance the dehydration issue. Oral therapy is also beneficial for older people and those with medical complications.
Generally, healthy adults with mild diarrhea can also drink ORS; however, it might not be necessary. Adults can generally rehydrate with water, sports drinks, and clear broths that contain an electrolyte. Oral rehydration therapy can be also given through a nasogastric tube and should routinely include the use of zinc supplements.
- Is ORS Safe To Drink Daily?
ORS electrolyte drinks are safe to drink on daily basis, but you are not recommended to consume them when you are not losing huge chunks of fluids from the body. While you are healthy, consuming ORS juice every day might result in overhydration which introduces its own set of illnesses.
However, when you are ill or having diarrhea or vomiting, it is advisable to drink 3 liters of ORS until you will be relieved if you are a teenage child or even an adult. The 3 liters of electrolyte drinks can have two or more rehydration sachets.
- When Should You Take ORS Drinks?
- You can drink ORS drinks under the following conditions
- Every time the child passes a watery stool.
- As soon as vomiting starts
- Sip it every 5 minutes until you feel urination levels are back to normal.
- You can sip it before sleep as well, however, make certain it’s only a few sips
It is always advisable to keep a rehydration sachet at your home so that if you feel any illness or vomiting during the night, you can easily intake to get quick relief and further consult with a healthcare professional.
