Rehydration during diarrhoea: mixing oral rehydration salts correctly and when to see a doctor
Dehydration is the biggest risk with diarrhoea. How to mix oral rehydration salts correctly and the signs that need medical care.
Why rehydration matters
Diarrhoea makes the body lose a lot of water and electrolytes. Young children and older people dehydrate faster and are at greater risk.
Mixing oral rehydration salts correctly
- Read the packet: mix each sachet with exactly the amount of water stated.
- Mix the whole sachet at once; do not split it or make it stronger or weaker.
- Use cooled boiled water; use the solution within 24 hours.
- Give small sips, often.
Eating and drinking
Keep eating soft, easy-to-digest foods; breastfed babies should keep breastfeeding. Avoid fizzy soft drinks and sugary packaged fruit juice.
Signs that need urgent care
- Intense thirst, dry lips, sunken eyes, very little urine, lethargy.
- High fever, or constant vomiting that prevents drinking.
- Blood in the stool or black stool.
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 2 days in adults, or at any time in newborns.
This article is for reference and does not replace a doctor's instructions.
⚕️ This content is for reference only and does not replace diagnosis, advice or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. If you have unusual symptoms, see a doctor – find digestive clinics and pharmacies near you.