ORS is the global solution for alleviating dehydration but over consumption can be lethal. It is vital to learn how to use ORS in the right way in order to avoid complications.
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is a mixture of salts and sugar dissolved in clean water, used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting, restoring electrolyte balance and preventing severe complications. Here are myths and truths about ORS.
Diarrheal illness remains a global concern, particularly impacting children with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Presently, oral rehydration solution (ORS) serves as the standard treatment for acute diarrhea in pediatric cases. While effective in reducing mortality rates, ORS fails to address diarrheal symptoms, leading to reduced compliance and therapeutic effectiveness among caregivers. In a discussion with Moneycontrol's Sonal Mehrotra, Dr Sivaranjani, a pediatrician and social worker, highlighted concerns about FSSAI-approved ORS, noting their high sugar content. Dr Sivaranjani recommended adhering to only WHO-recommended ORS formulations for better health outcomes.
Dr Dilip Mahalanabis kept large drums of ORS by his side for family members to administer to patients with diarrhoea; this intervention brought cholera fatality among the 1971 Bangladesh war refugees down from 30 percent to 4 percent.
Dr Dilip Mahalanabis, 87, was suffering from lung infection and other old-age ailments, they said.
The government plans to set up a 24-hour national health helpline to address medical queries of the people, the Lok Sabha was informed today.