ORS & Dehydration: What You Need to Know During Viral Fever

ORS & Dehydration: Proper Hydration During Fever & Flu

மிகவும் பரவலாக ஏற்படும் வைரஸ் காய்ச்சல்கள், வாந்தி, மற்றும் loose motion போன்ற நிலைகளில் உடல் நீர் இழப்பு (dehydration) ஏற்படுகிறது.

During fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is the safest and most effective way to restore fluid and electrolytes in the body.

ORS என்றால் என்ன?

ORS stands for Oral Rehydration Solution – a mixture of water, sodium, potassium, glucose, and chloride that helps maintain your body’s electrolyte balance during dehydration.

Key points:

• First invented to treat cholera-related dehydration

• Recommended by WHO and UNICEF for dehydration from fever, vomiting, and loose motions

• Maintains proper body hydration when sugar/carbonated drinks are not suitable

Original ORS comes either as:

• Powder – mix in clean water according to instructions

• Pre-mixed tetra pack – ready to drink

Avoid using orange, pineapple, lime, green-colored drinks, sugary beverages, or energy drinks, as they can worsen dehydration.

ORS எப்போது குடிக்க வேண்டும்?

• Fever with vomiting

• Loose motions (diarrhea)

• Flu with dehydration symptoms

• Electrolyte imbalance

Dosage tip:
Follow packet instructions or consult a pediatrician for children. Use clean water for preparation.

சர்க்கரை மற்றும் கார்பனேட்டட் பானங்கள் ஏன் தவிர்க்க வேண்டும்?

• High sugar content can worsen dehydration

• Carbonation and artificial flavors are not recommended for children or dehydrated patients

• Energy drinks, juices with added sugar, or colored drinks are not substitutes for ORS

Always prefer:

• WHO-recommended ORS formula

• Properly mixed powder or pre-mixed tetra pack

• Home-prepared ORS only when prepared carefully with correct proportions

Expert Guidance 

Dr. Pavithra Thamizharasan, Paediatrics & Intensive Care, Iswarya Hospital explains:

“During dehydration caused by fever, vomiting, or loose motions, ORS restores lost fluids and electrolytes safely. Avoid sugary drinks or juices, as they cannot replace essential salts and may worsen dehydration.”

View Dr. Pavithra’s Profile

Watch Our Awareness Video 

For a detailed explanation about ORS preparation, proper usage, and dehydration care, watch the video:

Watch Video: ORS & Dehydration Awareness

This video explains hydration strategies, warning signs, and step-by-step ORS preparation for parents.

நியூஸ் 18 தமிழில்

Dr. Pavithra recently gave an interview to News18 Tamil about dehydration, ORS, and safe hydration practices during fever and viral infections.

“பேச்சு, loose motion, மற்றும் காய்ச்சல் காரணமாக உடல் நீர் இழந்தால், ORS உடனடியாக குடிப்பது அவசியம். சர்க்கரை பானங்கள் தவிர்க்க வேண்டும்,” Dr. Pavithra கூறினார்.

This interview emphasizes early hydration and correct ORS use for children and adults during seasonal flu outbreaks.

How to Prepare ORS at Home

Homemade ORS formula (WHO recommended):

• 1 liter of clean water

• 6 teaspoons of sugar

• ½ teaspoon of salt

Mix well until dissolved. Give small frequent sips to children or adults who are vomiting.

Only use home-prepared ORS if accurate measurements can be ensured. Pre-mixed tetra packs are safer and more convenient.

Preventive Tips 

• Encourage frequent water intake during fever

• Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks

• Use ORS for dehydration symptoms

• Monitor for reduced urine output or extreme weakness

• Consult a pediatrician if symptoms persist

Conclusion

ORS is the first and safest solution for dehydration caused by fever, vomiting, or loose motions. Following proper preparation, avoiding sugary drinks, and seeking expert guidance ensures fast and safe recovery.

Parents and caregivers should stay vigilant and rely on Dr. Pavithra Thamizharasan’s advice for children’s hydration and viral fever management.

FAQs 

1. What is ORS?

A solution of water, sugar, salt, and electrolytes to prevent dehydration.

2. Can juices or energy drinks replace ORS?

No. Sugary drinks and juices cannot replace essential salts and electrolytes.

3. How do I prepare ORS at home?

1 liter clean water + 6 tsp sugar + ½ tsp salt. Mix well and give frequent sips.

4. குழந்தைக்கு எப்போது ORS கொடுக்க வேண்டும்?

During vomiting, loose motion, fever, or low urine output.

5. நிபுணர் ஆலோசனைக்கு யாரை அணுகலாம்?

Dr. Pavithra Thamizharasan, Paediatrics & Intensive Care, Iswarya Hospital.