What should you know about oral rehydration therapy ORT?

ORT is used when the body has lost fluid through diarrhoea, vomiting, food poisoning, heat exhaustion, or another cause of dehydration. The solution contains water, glucose, and electrolytes in measured proportions. Glucose helps the intestine absorb sodium and water, supporting recovery of the body's fluid balance.

ORT is different from intravenous fluids because it is swallowed. It may be suitable when a person is alert and can drink, but it cannot safely replace urgent assessment when dehydration is severe or drinking is not possible.

Use an oral rehydration salts product and mix it with the exact water volume on the label. Offer repeated small sips, especially after each episode of diarrhoea or vomiting. If nausea is strong, slow the pace rather than abandoning fluids. Continue normal feeds when tolerated and rest in a cool place after heat-related fluid loss.

Do not add extra ingredients or use homemade proportions unless a clinician has specifically instructed you. People with kidney or heart disease, or those taking medicines that affect fluid balance, should ask for individual advice.

Seek urgent care for fainting, confusion, severe dizziness, unusual sleepiness, inability to swallow or keep fluids down, very little urine, blood in vomit or stool, or worsening weakness. Heat illness with confusion or collapse is an emergency. Children and older adults may need assessment earlier.

Ask which solution is suitable, how to plan doses around ongoing losses, when to resume normal activity, and which symptoms require emergency treatment.