How quickly does oral rehydration therapy relieve diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea removes fluid and electrolytes from the body. Oral rehydration solution contains a carefully balanced combination that helps the intestine absorb them. Thirst, dry mouth, weakness, or light-headedness may improve as hydration is restored, while loose stools can continue for a while. The speed of recovery depends on the cause, how much fluid is being lost, and whether the solution is kept down.

Prepare the solution exactly as directed and take frequent small sips, especially after each loose stool. Continue suitable food if you can tolerate it. Avoid relying on very sugary drinks or homemade mixtures with uncertain proportions. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Infants, older adults, and people with significant medical conditions may need individual advice sooner.

Seek prompt medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, very little urine, blood or black stool, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration. Urgent advice is also appropriate when diarrhoea is severe, continues without improvement, or affects a young child, older adult, or person with a serious health condition.

Ask which solution is suitable, how much to take, whether your medicines or health conditions change the advice, and what signs mean you need assessment.