As India reels under intense heatwaves, preventing dehydration, especially among children, is challenging. One of the most significant health impacts of high temperatures is diarrhoea, which results in the loss of excessive water and electrolytes.
In India, diarrhoea is the . Despite the importance of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) which can easily prevent dehydration caused by diarrhoea, only 60.6% of children receive this essential treatment, according to recent NFHS-5 data.
Dr Pankaj Garg, Senior Consultant in Neonatology at Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, highlighted the importance of ORS in managing dehydration and diarrhoea in children.
“Diarrhoea results in rapid fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances, leading to dehydration. ORS is a simple yet highly effective solution to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, preventing complications and promoting faster recovery in young children,” said Dr Garg.
Despite the importance of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) which can easily prevent dehydration caused by diarrhoea, only 60.6% of children receive this essential treatment. (Photo: Getty Images)While ORS is safe and effective, the expert warned against the incorrect mixture of salt or sugar in water as it can be harmful.
“Incorrect can disrupt this balance, leading to severe health risks such as worsening dehydration or even death in extreme cases,” cautioned Dr Garg.
Dr Mohsin Wali, Consultant Physician at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, highlighted the importance of selecting the correct ORS in the market.
“Choosing the right ORS is crucial for effectively . It’s vital to differentiate between ORS and commercially available sugary drinks. While these beverages may offer some electrolytes and fluids, they lack the crucial glucose-sodium and potassium balance necessary for rapid and effective rehydration,” said Dr Wali.
Opt for an ORS formulation approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO).Sugary drinks may provide temporary relief but do not address the core issue of dehydration.
Dr Wali said to opt for an ORS formulation approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO), specifically designed for this purpose. Most of these ORS packages will have “WHO” written on them.
“A WHO-approved ORS formulation maintains overall health and ensures quick recovery, especially in vulnerable populations such as children,” said Dr Wali.
By understanding the benefits of ORS and its proper use, individuals and families can take charge of their health, particularly during the hot summer months, potentially saving thousands of children’s lives each year.
