What is the first treatment for dehydration?

Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluid than it replaces. Vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, sweating, heat exposure or difficulty drinking can also disturb salts needed by the body. Oral Rehydration Therapy combines water with salts and glucose in a balance that helps the intestine absorb fluid. Plain water may not replace lost salts adequately when fluid loss is substantial. The right approach depends on the cause and severity.

Take small, frequent sips of an oral rehydration solution and continue as tolerated. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Continue suitable food when able, unless a clinician advises otherwise. A Dehydration assessment can identify the likely cause and signs that need treatment. IV Fluid Therapy may be needed when a person cannot drink, keeps vomiting, is confused or has severe fluid loss. Use a correctly prepared product and follow its instructions.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, fainting, very little or no urine, inability to keep fluids down, severe weakness, fast breathing or signs of shock. Babies, older adults and people with significant medical conditions can worsen quickly. Emergency care is appropriate if someone is difficult to wake or collapses.

Ask which rehydration fluid is suitable, how much to take and how often, what may be causing the fluid loss, and which warning signs should prompt review. Mention vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, urine changes and medicines that may affect fluid balance.