Oral Rehydration Therapy

Oral Rehydration Therapy

Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) is a straightforward remedy for dehydration linked to diarrhea, particularly gastroenteritis or gastroenteropathy, such as that induced by cholera or rotavirus. ORT involves administering a solution of salts and sugars orally. Although utilized worldwide, it holds utmost significance in the developing world, where it annually saves millions of children from succumbing to diarrhea, the second leading cause of death (after pneumonia) in children under five.

In instances where Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) sachets are unavailable, homemade solutions are typically employed. While various recipes exist to enhance palatability (e.g., by adding flavor, citrus, savory elements, etc.), they all adhere to a standard ratio of water, sugar, and salt.

ORT is accessible wherever adequate nutrition is present. Conversely, ORS is usually packaged in pre-measured sachets ready to be mixed with water (typically 1 liter).

A basic oral rehydration therapy solution typically comprises:

 • 30 ml (6 level tsp) of sugar
 • 2.5 ml (1/2 level tsp) of salt, dissolved into
 • 1 liter (4.25 Cups) of clean water

It's important to note that these makeshift rehydration concoctions do not replenish potassium, and prolonged use may lead to hypokalemia. To incorporate some potassium, 125 ml (4 fl oz) of orange juice or mashed banana can be added to the mixture.