Dehydration » Treatment
Drinking fluids is usually sufficient for mild dehydration.
It is better to have frequent, small amounts of fluid (using a teaspoon or syringe for an infant or child)
rather than trying to force large amounts of fluid at one time. Drinking too much fluid at once can cause vomiting.
Electrolyte solutions or freezer pops are especially effective. These are available at pharmacies.
Sport drinks contain a lot of sugar and can cause or worsen diarrhea. In infants and children, avoid
using water as the primary replacement fluid.
Intravenous fluids and hospitalization may be necessary for moderate to severe dehydration.
The doctor will try to identify and then treat the cause of the dehydration.
Most cases of stomach viruses tend to resolve on their own after a few days.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
There are usually no side effects from either drinking fluids or getting them through an IV.
Precaution
If a dehydrated person drinks beverages that contain caffeine, such as teas, soda, and coffee, they
may feel worse. Caffeine causes more urination, so it can undo the benefit of drinking fluids.
Water, sports drinks, and special beverages for children such as Pedialyte help restore hydration
and chemical balance. Pedialyte, it is mostly water, but also contains salts to prevent chemical imbalances in the blood.
- Sub Link -
