A mixture of water, salts, and carbohydrates, is an important way to replace the fluids and minerals that are lost when one becomes dehydrated—a condition that is frequently brought on by excessive perspiration of ORS
The demand for Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) has increased during these sweltering summer days as the heat wave engulfs most of the nation, with Bengaluru alone seeing a 60% hike. Fruits and cool drinks are becoming popular options as temperatures rise to almost 40 degrees Celsius in several areas, relieving the intense heat and preventing dehydration. A mixture of water, salts, and carbohydrates known as it is a critical remedy for replacing the fluids and important minerals lost due to dehydration, which can occur during conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, or profuse perspiration.
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When is ORS needed by an individual?
As soon as you begin to feel dehydrated, you should start drinking it. Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Paras Health in Gurugram, Dr. Ritesh Yadav, stated: “Dehydration might manifest as extreme thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, decreased urine output, fatigue, or lightheadedness. In order to stop the dehydration from getting worse, it is best to start it straight away.”
In addition to the intense heat, diarrhoea—a typical ailment that arises when an individual is exposed to a heat wave—can also cause dehydration. Since its establishment in the 1960s, oral rehydration therapy (ORT) has been the main treatment for acute fluid loss caused by diarrhea.
Oral rehydration solution, which is composed of glucose electrolyte solution with citrate, efficiently heals metabolic acidosis and dehydration, according to Dr. Veenu Gupta, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Amrita Hospital in Faridabad. The morbidity and mortality linked to diarrhea have significantly decreased with the use of ORS.”
“ORS, a concoction of glucose, potassium, sodium, and chloride, works well to treat and prevent dehydration brought on by diarrhea. Additionally, zinc included in it lessens the intensity and length of episodes of diarrhea,” Dr. Gupta continued.
Which is better, ready-made tetrapack solutions or powder ORS?
In order to make ORS more appetizing, it is now also offered in tetrapacks with several flavors. “ORS, typically available in powder form, is packaged in hermetically sealed sachets for dilution in specified volumes of water,” Dr. Veenu Gupta noted while discussing which choice is superior. Age-specific dosage guidelines make sure that you are getting enough fluids to fight dehydration. In accordance with FDA guidelines, flavoring or coloring compounds may be added to it to improve palatability. Consumer misunderstanding results from the fact that ORSL, although looking similar to the WHO-recommended it, is neither designed nor intended for the treatment of diarrhea.”
How Often Can Someone Have ORS in a Day?
People are turning to cold water, ORS, and other refreshing summer beverages for relief from the rising temperatures. However, how often should you take it and is it safe for everyone to take it?
In response, Dr. Ritesh Yadav stated: “It’s advisable to sip it slowly throughout the day if you’re mildly to moderately dehydrated.” However, if you are very dehydrated, you may need to consume it more frequently. it can be consumed in moderation to help make up for any evident losses. Reduction in thirst, normal urine volume, and improvement in urine color are all signs of recovery.”
“ORS is safe for most people to consume, especially during the summer when dehydration is more prevalent. It’s advisable to consult your doctor first, though, if you have any underlying medical disorders, such as renal or heart illness, or if you’re allergic to any of the chemicals in it. They can offer you advice on how much to drink and whether it is safe for you,” he continued.
Dr. Ritesh suggested coconut water as a viable natural substitute for ORS because it contains the majority of the electrolytes.
Can individuals with diabetes consume ORS?
ORS contains electrolytes and glucose, which can be used to balance electrolyte levels and restore fluids. In addition, it’s critical for diabetics to continuously watch their blood sugar levels when using ORS.
“People with diabetes should stay hydrated and closely monitor their blood sugar levels during an illness or period of reduced oral intake,” stated Dr. Sumeet Arora, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Endocrinology, Artemis Hospital Gurugram. Oral rehydration solution, or ORS, may be necessary for those on insulin or oral hypoglycemic medicines to stay hydrated, particularly when they have diarrhea.
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