Possible risks and side effects of oral rehydration
Oral rehydration is designed to normalize electrolyte levels. However, if the solution is not prepared or used properly, it can cause salt poisoning. It is also called hypernotremia.
Possible side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomitting
- Soft spot
- Loss of appetite
- Confusion
- Extreme thirst
- Kidney damage
Who should avoid oral hydration solution?
Oral rehydration solutions should be used with caution if:
- Have a kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Heart failure
- Taking medicine for heart disease or blood pressure
Your doctor may determine if oral rehydration therapy is safe for you.
When is oral rehydration solution needed?
As a general rule, oral rehydration solutions should be used only as directed by a doctor. If misused, ORS can cause salt poisoning. This is more likely to happen if you take ORS when you don’t really need it.
If you have severe diarrhea or vomiting, talk to your doctor first. They can determine if you need an oral rehydration solution or a drink, such as water, is sufficient. Similarly, if you feel dehydrated, see your doctor first. Your need for oral rehydration solution depends on many factors, including your age and general health.
In most cases, healthy adults can rehydrate by drinking:
- Water
- Clear broth
- Diluted juice
- Sports drinks
See your doctor if you are still experiencing dehydration symptoms after drinking this liquid.
How to give oral rehydration solution?
ORS is a liquid solution. This is for oral administration. Nasogastric breast feeding can be used if a person is unable to drink due to vomiting. In this case, the ORS is administered through a nasogastric tube, which is inserted into the abdomen through the nose.
How to make oral rehydration solutions or ORS at home?
Treating dehydration with ORS at home is not recommended. OTC or ORS versions are the safest option. ORS is usually available in a bag as a powder. The powder is designed to dissolve in water.
The general steps of SRO preparation are as follows:
- Wash your hands with soap and clean water.
- Then wash dishes and utensils with clean soapy water.
- Put one liter of clean water in the container.
- Place the ORS powder in water, then shake with a tool.
- Another way to treat dehydration
In addition to ORS, dehydration can be treated by drinking:
- Water
- Tea
- Sports drinks
- Clean broth
- Diluted juice
The exception is severe dehydration, which requires intravenous rehydration. This treatment can quickly replace lost fluid in an emergency.