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Oral Rehydration Salts Solution (ORS): An Effective Remedy For Dehydration

Dr. Abhishtita Mudunuri

4 Min Read

Fast Check Fact Checked

It is normal for the body to lose water daily via breathing, sweating, urinating, excretion and even crying! However, if you are not drinking enough water or losing more fluids than you take in, then you may end up being dehydrated. If ignored, severe dehydration can lead to many uncomfortable symptoms that need immediate medical attention.

What causes dehydration?

Sometimes dehydration happens due to simple reasons such as not drinking enough water when you’re sick, busy or travelling. Some serious causes of dehydration are:

Fever
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Excessive sweating
Diabetes (increased urination)

Dehydration symptoms can range from mild to severe: from thirst, dry mouth, dry skin, headache to feeling dizzy, rapid heartbeat, sunken eyes, lack of energy and fainting.

An effective rehydration solution for dehydration

Oral rehydration salt solution (ORS) is a glucose-electrolyte solution that can help retain the fluid loss in the body. It has proven to be successful in preventing and managing acute dehydration and diarrhea.

ORS contains salts (electrolytes) and sugar which helps stimulate water and electrolyte absorption from the gut. In simple terms, it reverses dehydration and replaces the lost salts. ORS is easily available at the pharmacy in a powder form in sachets. Buying this product does not require any prescription.

How to prepare ORS solution

ORS is available in 20.5g, 10.25g or 4g and can be reconstituted respectively in 1l, 500ml or 200ml of drinking water
Boil the required volume of drinking water and let it cool
Dissolve the entire contents of one sachet and give a good stir
Drink the solution as advised by the doctor or the instructions in the sachet
Discard the solution 24 hours after preparation

The correct dosage

For infants under 6 months: Sleepiness, irritability, no tears, dry mouth and decrease in wet diapers are signs that your baby is dehydrated, which requires emergency medical attention. If your baby is less than 6 months old, it is advised that you breastfeed him/her at regular intervals. Do not give ORS solution to your child.

For 6 months to 1-year-olds: Add the powder in 200ml boiled and cooled water. Give your child ORS in frequent doses using a spoon or dropper. Ensure that you’re giving small doses. 50-100ml of ORS solution is recommended for children of this age bracket.

For 2-10 years old: Follow the preparation method as above. Give doses in small quantities. 100-200ml of ORS solution is recommended for children of this age bracket.

In older children and adults, you can drink as advised by the doctor. If ORS is not available or you do not have any ingredients for the homemade solution then it is best you consult a pediatrician immediately or visit the hospital.

Homemade ORS recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 teaspoon of salt
6 teaspoons of sugar
1-litre drinking water

Method:

Boil the water and then let it cool down
Add sugar, salt and mix it till it dissolves
Makes 5 cupfuls (200ml each)
The solution must be consumed within 24 hours. You can add a few drops of lemon juice for taste.

Other homemade rehydration remedies: Carrot soup, rice water, mashed bananas, fresh fruit juice, coconut water or just simple drinking water.

It is important to remember that the ORS solution is only used for the treatment of dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea. It cannot cure the underlying cause. Therefore, it is important that you consult a doctor online if you have doubts about a health condition or medication. With MFine, you can instantly connect with a doctor from the comfort of your home. Ab #HarGharMeinDoctor

FAQs

What is Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)?
Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) is a solution made up of water, sugar, and salt, designed to rehydrate the body and restore electrolytes lost due to dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating.

How does ORS help with dehydration?
ORS helps by replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, which are essential for proper hydration and preventing dehydration-related complications like dizziness and fatigue.

When should I use Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)?
ORS should be used when you experience dehydration symptoms such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, dark urine, or fatigue, especially after diarrhea, vomiting, or intense physical activity.

How do I prepare ORS drink at home?
To prepare ORS at home, mix the recommended amount of oral rehydration salts in clean, boiled, and cooled water. Follow the instructions on the ORS packet for proper proportions.

Can ORS be used for children?
Yes, ORS is safe for children, especially when dealing with dehydration caused by diarrhea. However, it is important to follow the dosage guidelines based on the child’s age and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen.

How often should ORS be consumed for dehydration?
The frequency of ORS consumption depends on the level of dehydration. For mild dehydration, it is typically recommended to drink small sips frequently. For more severe dehydration, larger quantities may be needed, as instructed by a healthcare professional.

How long does it take for ORS to work?
ORS typically provides relief within a few hours, with noticeable improvements in energy and hydration levels. However, the full benefits may take longer, depending on the severity of dehydration.

Are there any side effects of ORS?
ORS is generally safe. However, overuse or improper mixing may cause an imbalance of electrolytes. It’s essential to follow the recommended guidelines to avoid potential side effects like bloating or high sodium levels.

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Written by

Dr. Abhishtita Mudunuri

Dr. Abhishtita Mudunuri is an Internal Medicine Physician Diabetologist with over 10 years of experience in treating lifestyle disorders like Diabetes, Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, etc. She has worked previously at Columbia Asia, Sunshine Hospitals, and Apollo Group of Hospitals. Currently, she is working as a Senior Manager and Diabetologist at MFine.

Oral Rehydration Salts Solution (ORS): An Effective Remedy For Dehydration

What causes dehydration?

An effective rehydration solution for dehydration

How to prepare ORS solution

The correct dosage

FAQs

Request a Call Back

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