How should patients with heatstroke replenish electrolytes?

Aug 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Heatstroke patients can replenish electrolytes generally through intravenous administration of balanced fluids, oral rehydration salts, consuming electrolyte-containing beverages, drinking lightly salted water, and ingesting electrolyte-rich foods. The method of electrolyte supplementation for heatstroke patients should be selected according to the severity of the condition. For patients with altered consciousness or severe dehydration, intravenous supplementation is preferred. Patients who are conscious may be given oral supplementation.

Patients with heatstroke can replenish electrolytes generally through intravenous administration of balanced fluids, oral rehydration salts, consumption of electrolyte-containing beverages, intake of lightly salted water, and eating foods containing electrolytes. If in doubt, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Intravenous infusion of balanced fluids: Severely dehydrated patients or those unable to take oral fluids can rapidly replenish sodium, potassium, chloride, and other electrolytes through intravenous infusion of Ringer's solution, normal saline, and other balanced fluids, thereby correcting internal imbalances and maintaining acid-base equilibrium.

2. Oral rehydration salts: Patients who are conscious and able to swallow independently can drink rehydration salts mixed according to the recommended ratio. These salts contain electrolytes matched to the body's needs, allowing for gradual replacement of lost sodium and potassium and preventing imbalances that may result from drinking water alone.

3. Drinking electrolyte-containing beverages: Choose electrolyte-rich drinks such as sports beverages and consume them in small amounts repeatedly. These beverages not only replenish fluids but also supply elements such as sodium and magnesium, making them suitable for patients with mild symptoms who can eat independently.

4. Intake of lightly salted water: Prepare lightly salted water by adding an appropriate amount of table salt to warm water and let the patient sip it slowly. This can replace sodium ions lost through heavy sweating and help alleviate symptoms such as muscle cramps caused by electrolyte imbalance.

5. Consuming electrolyte-rich foods: After the patient's condition improves, eat potassium-rich fruits such as bananas and oranges, as well as lightly salted nuts and other foods containing various minerals, to assist in electrolyte replenishment and promote recovery.

Heatstroke patients should choose appropriate methods of electrolyte replacement according to the severity of their condition. For unconscious or severely dehydrated patients, intravenous rehydration should be prioritized, while conscious patients can use oral methods in combination.

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