Rehydration

Check Other Communicable Diseases -->

Rehydration

Oral Rehydration

The introduction of oral rehydration, by WHO in 1971, has greatly simplified the treatment of cholera and other acute diarrheal diseases. The aim of oral fluid therapy is to prevent dehydration and reduce mortality. It has been the experience of workers at Calcutta, for instance, that as many as 90 to 95 per cent of all cases of cholera and acute diarrhea can be treated by oral fluid alone.

Related Issues

Oral Rehydration Therapy

Intravenous Rehydration Therapy

Maintenance Therapy

Oral fluid therapy is based on the observation that glucose given orally enhances the intestinal absorption of salt and water, and is capable of correcting the electrolyte and water deficit.

Intravenous Rehydration

Intravenous infusion is usually required only for the initial rehydration of severely dehydrated patients who are in shock or unable to drink. Mineral Water

Maintenance Therapy

After the initial fluid and electrolyte deficit has been corrected (i.e. the signs of dehydration have gone), oral fluid should be used for maintenance therapy.

E-mail this page to a friend