Oral rehydration salts (ORS) is an oral rehydration formula made of dry salts and is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). You may prepare a solution of ORS for babies at home by mixing salt and sugar in the prescribed quantity of clean drinking water. You can also purchase ORS as a powder or as a pre-mixed liquid oral rehydration solution, also called ORS, from a drugstore or pharmacy. Taking ORS by mouth replenishes the water and electrolytes lost from the body during health conditions such as diarrhea. Hence, ORS is a common component of oral rehydration therapy (ORT). Keep reading this post to learn more about when babies need ORS, its benefits, the right quantities to administer it, and tips to make ORS at home.
When Do Babies Need Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)?
Babies need ORT when they lose excess water and electrolytes from their bodies. Several conditions and factors could cause loss of electrolytes and fluids. Babies are vulnerable to infections and gastrointestinal issues that can cause persistent diarrhea and vomiting, leading to acute dehydration. Dehydration can lead to several adverse health effects, making ORS use under the pediatrician’s guidance imperative for rehydration. Below are some signs of dehydration in infants (1).
Severe thirst Crankiness and restlessness Less number of soiled diapers due to less urination Dark yellow urine No tears while crying Dry corners of the mouth and chapped lips Sunken soft spot or fontanelles on the top of the head Sunken eyes Lethargy
If your baby is exhibiting any of these symptoms, consult a pediatrician and discuss ORT. In severe dehydration, the baby may become dizzy and lose consciousness.
What Are The Benefits Of Oral Rehydration Solution?
Oral rehydration salts or solutions contain sodium chloride, anhydrous glucose, potassium chloride, and trisodium citrate (dihydrate) (2). The salts help maintain electrolyte balance in the body, while glucose provides the energy to recover, recuperate, and heal. Below are some other benefits of ORS (3).
It is cost-effective and readily available.
It is easy-to-prepare and easy-to-administer at home.
It contains the right ratio of salts necessary to maintain the body’s osmolarity, which is essential to keep the body’s physiological harmony.
It acts fast as the solution contains simple salts that readily enter the bloodstream.
It can be administered orally, so even individuals without a medical background can administer it easily.
How To Give ORS To Infants?
Below are the steps to make an ORS and administer it to babies. You can also use packaged, pre-mixed liquid ORS and begin from step three mentioned above. Your baby may also receive other medications to control diarrhea and vomiting that cause dehydration. If ORS does not improve the baby’s health, speak to the doctor.
What Quantity Of ORS Solution Does A Baby Need?
The quantity of ORS needed by a baby depends on the severity of dehydration. It could also depend on the frequency of vomiting or diarrhea. For instance, according to UNICEF, children under two years need one-fourth to one-half of a large cup (250ml) of ORS solution after each watery or loose stool. Children older than two years need half to one liter after each watery stool (5). The precise quantity of ORS needed could vary due to several factors, including if the baby is receiving other medications. Therefore, speak to a pediatrician to determine the quantity of ORS solution appropriate for your baby.
What To Do If ORS Is Not Available?
If oral rehydration salts or solutions are unavailable, you may prepare one at home. Below are the steps to make ORS at home (6). Babies older than six months can be given different foods, such as gruels, rice water (congee), carrot soup, and tender coconut water, for rehydration. Once the baby is rehydrated and their digestive system seems at ease, you may begin feeding them a regular diet after consulting your doctor.
Are There Any Side Effects Of ORS?
ORS solution, when administered in recommended quantities, does not lead to side effects. Overfeeding ORS may cause complications, such as electrolyte imbalance and water retention. In rare cases, ORS may not be suitable for babies with some health conditions or those on some medications. Incorrectly prepared homemade ORS may have counter effects. For instance, too much sugar or salt in the ORS could worsen diarrhea. If you suspect your baby is displaying side effects to ORS, consult a healthcare provider.
Precautions To Take While Feeding ORS To Babies
Below are some precautions to observe while feeding ORS to a baby (7).
Avoid feeding ORS to babies with impaired renal function, gastrointestinal obstruction, or chronic health problems without consulting a doctor first.
Discuss with your doctor about the time for administering other medicines if the baby is on ORS.
Don’t use ORS solution for more than three to four days unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
Avoid feeding ORS in one gulp since it may exacerbate vomiting in some babies. Instead, use a spoon or a sippy cup to feed small quantities over a short period.
