Does oral rehydration therapy help with diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea removes fluid and electrolytes from the body. Oral rehydration solution combines clean water with carefully balanced salts and glucose so the intestine can absorb fluid efficiently. It treats dehydration rather than directly stopping every loose stool. It is especially useful when diarrhoea is accompanied by thirst, a dry mouth, reduced urination or weakness. Commercial sachets should be mixed exactly as directed; an overly concentrated or diluted mixture may not work safely.

Take small, frequent sips and continue replacing fluid after each loose stool. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with tiny sips. Continue breastfeeding and offer suitable food when tolerated. Use a freshly prepared solution according to its instructions, keep it covered and discard it within the stated time. Avoid relying on sugary drinks, alcohol or very salty homemade mixtures, which can worsen fluid imbalance.

Seek urgent medical help for severe dehydration, confusion, fainting, inability to drink, very little urine, blood in the stool or severe abdominal pain. Babies, older adults and people with significant medical conditions can deteriorate quickly and need early advice. Contact a clinician if diarrhoea persists, returns repeatedly or follows recent travel, antibiotics or hospital care.

Which rehydration product suits me? How much should I sip, and are there medicines I should avoid? Do my symptoms suggest infection or another cause needing treatment?