When is oral rehydration therapy recommended for dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when fluid loss exceeds intake, often after diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, heavy sweating, or poor access to drinks. Oral rehydration solution provides water together with salts and glucose in a balance that supports absorption. It is more suitable than plain water alone when salts have also been lost. It does not treat the underlying cause, such as infection, heat illness, or medication side effects, so that cause may still need assessment.

Use a commercially prepared solution or a clinician-recommended product. Mix it exactly as directed with safe water and use it within the stated time. Give small, frequent sips; if vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart more slowly. Continue appropriate feeding for children and usual medicines unless a clinician advises otherwise. Record worsening symptoms and the ability to drink, and arrange medical advice when the cause is unclear or fluid loss continues.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe drowsiness, very little or no urine, rapid breathing, cold hands and feet, or inability to drink. Get prompt medical advice for ongoing vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, severe pain, high fever, or dehydration in a young child, older adult, or person with a serious health condition.

Ask which solution is suitable, how much and how often to offer it, whether your medicines need review, and what signs show that home rehydration is no longer enough.