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Under what circumstances should one drink oral rehydration salts?

Apr 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the dosage forms of oral rehydration salts include Oral Rehydration Salts (Ⅰ), Oral Rehydration Salts (Ⅱ), and Oral Rehydration Salts Powder (Ⅲ). In cases of acute diarrhea, frequent vomiting, heatstroke caused by high-temperature environments, dehydration after prolonged physical activity, or fluid loss due to chronic diseases, oral rehydration salts can be consumed to replenish body fluids and electrolytes.

Generally, oral rehydration salts are available in various formulations including Oral Rehydration Salts (Ⅰ), Oral Rehydration Salts (Ⅱ), and Oral Rehydration Salts Powder (Ⅲ). These can be consumed to replenish body fluids and electrolytes in situations such as acute diarrhea, frequent vomiting, heatstroke caused by high-temperature environments, dehydration after prolonged physical activity, and fluid loss due to chronic diseases. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Acute Diarrhea

During acute diarrhea, the rapid expulsion of intestinal contents may lead to significant loss of water and electrolytes. Rehydration salts can quickly replace these lost components, preventing dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

2. Frequent Vomiting

Frequent vomiting can also cause noticeable loss of body fluids and electrolytes. At this time, drinking rehydration salts helps restore fluid balance and alleviate discomfort caused by dehydration.

3. Heatstroke Caused by High-Temperature Environments

In high-temperature environments, the human body cools itself through sweating. However, excessive sweating can lead to loss of body fluids and electrolytes, especially sodium and potassium. Rehydration salts can effectively replenish these lost components, preventing heatstroke or alleviating its symptoms.

4. Dehydration After Prolonged Physical Activity

Extended periods of intense physical activity can cause excessive sweating, leading to dehydration. At this time, drinking rehydration salts can rapidly replenish fluids and electrolytes, helping the body restore its water balance.

5. Fluid Loss Caused by Chronic Diseases

Certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes and kidney disease, may lead to chronic loss of body fluids and electrolytes. In such cases, doctors may recommend regular consumption of rehydration salts to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

It is important to maintain good eating habits in daily life, ensuring adequate intake of fluids and electrolytes, especially foods rich in potassium, which can help prevent fluid and electrolyte loss.

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