Is ORS is ultimate monsoon saviour? Doctors call it first line of defense for diarrhea, dehydration
Patients should always check for a WHO-approved label on the ORS packet before using it and avoid commercial ORS juices or drinks that do not carry this certification, as they may contain excess salt or sugar, which can be harmful, especially to children.
New Delhi: The monsoon season, with its refreshing rains and cool breezes, also brings a surge in infections and waterborne diseases. Among the most common and dangerous of these is diarrhea, which affects thousands across India during this time each year. What starts as a simple stomach upset can rapidly escalate into serious health concerns, especially when accompanied by dehydration. In such cases, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) serves as the first and most critical line of defense.
In an interaction with TV9 English, Dr. Parimala V Thirumalesh, Sr. Consultant - Neonatology & Pediatrics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, explained how ORS proves helpful in case of monsoon dehydration and diarrhea episodes.
During monsoon, water sources often become contaminated due to overflowing drains, stagnant water, and poor sanitation. This makes it easy for harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites to enter the digestive system through drinking water or contaminated food. This can trigger gastrointestinal infections that lead to frequent loose motions, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Street food, raw fruits, and vegetables washed in unclean water further increase the risk of infection.
The real danger lies not just in diarrhea itself but in the rapid loss of fluids and essential salts from the body. A condition known as dehydration. Dehydration affects the body’s normal functions and can lead to fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, sunken eyes, and in severe cases, unconsciousness or even death. Children, older adults, and those with weakened immunity are particularly vulnerable. In children, signs of dehydration can appear within hours and may include no tears while crying, dry tongue, irritability, or decreased urination.
This is where ORS proves to be a lifesaver. Oral Rehydration Solution is a simple, cost-effective mixture of glucose, sodium, potassium, and chloride, designed to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. When consumed correctly, ORS helps restore the body’s fluid balance and prevents further complications. The glucose in ORS enhances the absorption of sodium and water in the intestines, making it far more effective than plain water in treating dehydration.
Recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, ORS has been credited with saving millions of lives worldwide, especially in low-resource settings. It is available in pre-packaged sachets that can be easily mixed with clean water. One sachet should be dissolved in exactly one litre of safe, boiled and cooled, or filtered water. The solution should be sipped slowly and continuously throughout the day. Even if the patient is vomiting, small sips should be offered frequently, as the body can still absorb fluids.
Patients should always check for a WHO-approved label on the ORS packet before using it and avoid commercial ORS juices or drinks that do not carry this certification, as they may contain excess salt or sugar, which can be harmful, especially to children. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if the person shows signs of severe dehydration, such as confusion, inability to drink, persistent vomiting, or blood in the stools.
Prevention is always better than a cure, and several steps can help avoid diarrhea during the monsoon. Drinking only boiled or filtered water is essential. Eating freshly cooked meals, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, avoiding street food, and practicing good hand hygiene, especially after using the toilet and before eating, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
In a season where diarrheal diseases are common, being prepared is key. ORS should be a part of every household’s basic medical kit, especially during the monsoon. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it the go-to solution for managing dehydration quickly and safely. Educating communities about the timely use of ORS can make a significant difference in reducing diarrheal deaths, particularly among young children.
In conclusion, while monsoons are a time of joy and renewal, they also demand extra caution when it comes to health. Diarrhea and dehydration should never be taken lightly. By ensuring access to clean water, following safe food practices, and using ORS as the first sign of trouble, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the season’s most common health threats.