Loose motions: using ORS the right way
How to mix and give ORS, what to eat, and when dehydration needs a hospital.
With diarrhoea the body loses water and salts. Replacing them early prevents dehydration, which is the main danger, especially for children and older people.
ORS the right way
- Mix one packet with exactly the amount of clean water written on the packet. Do not make it stronger.
- Give a little after every loose stool, in small sips or by spoon if the person is vomiting.
- Make a fresh mix as the packet advises.
Food and care
- Keep breastfeeding babies and keep eating light, normal food.
- For children, a doctor or health worker may advise zinc for some days.
- Wash hands with soap and drink safe water.
Go to hospital now if
- There is blood in the stool, high fever, or the person cannot keep any fluid down.
- There are signs of dehydration: very sleepy, sunken eyes, very dry mouth or no urine for many hours.
This article is general information and not a substitute for an in-person examination. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.
