DEHYDRATION: WHICH SOLUTIONS?

SYMPTOMS OF DEHYDRATION

Dehydration can result from conditions like diarrhea, vomiting, profuse sweating, or excessive urination, including situations such as:

• Stomach flu
• Food poisoning
• Traveler’s diarrhea
• Heat-related issues like cramps, exhaustion, or heat stroke
• Vigorous physical exertion
• Use of medications or natural diuretics
• Excessive alcohol consumption

The initial signs of dehydration encompass feelings of thirst, darker urine, and reduced urine output. As it progresses, additional symptoms may emerge:

• Muscle weakness
• Dry mouth
• Headaches
• Sunken eyes
• Weakness or lightheadedness
• Accelerated heart rate and breathing
• Confusion and potential hallucinations

DEHYDRATION : DRINK THE RIGHT FLUIDS

Oral rehydration solutions available in pharmacies are among the best options. They provide all the necessary elements, in the right proportions. They come as either ready-to-drink formulas, powder sachets, or popsicles, in a range of flavours.

Sports drinks can also help when rehydration solutions are unavailable. Homemade rehydration solutions can also be prepared. See below for a recipe you can make at home. It is important to measure the exact quantities as indicated.

• 360 ml (12 oz.) pure orange juice (no added sugar)
• 600 ml (20 oz.) cooled boiled water
• 2.5 ml (½ tsp.) salt

Avoid the following beverages as they are not adapted to the body’s needs and can worsen the situation:

• Coffee and tea
• Soft drinks (even flat ones)
• Sweetened drinks or fruit juice
• Alcoholic beverages

Milk is not recommended for rehydrating. If your infant is dehydrated, consult a health professional.

PREVENT DEHYDRATION

During an Illness:

• After vomiting, wait for a period of 30 to 60 minutes before attempting to consume fluids.
• Start with small quantities of an oral rehydration solution (approximately 5 to 15 ml, or 1 tsp. to 1 tbsp.) every 5 to 15 minutes.
• If you can retain the solution without vomiting, gradually increase the frequency and volume. Should vomiting recur, restart the process.
• If you find the taste unpalatable, consider refrigerating the solution to mellow the taste or opt for frozen popsicles, which are available in some pharmacies.
• Once four hours have elapsed without any further vomiting, and if the rehydration process is well-tolerated, you can begin reintroducing your regular diet gradually.

During Heatwaves or Intense Physical Activity:

• Water is the preferred choice for preventing dehydration. It’s advisable to drink small amounts regularly rather than waiting until you feel thirsty and consuming a large quantity.
• Older adults often do not experience a strong sensation of thirst and are susceptible to dehydration during heatwaves; they should be encouraged to drink regularly.
• In case symptoms of dehydration manifest, rehydration solutions (commercial or homemade) or sports drinks are more effective options than water.

BE CAREFUL WITH MEDICATION

People who are taking prescription or over-the-counter medicine should consult their pharmacist for precise instructions if they are dehydrated. This can include temporarily stopping medication or monitoring parameters to seek medical attention. Dehydration, especially when it is caused by vomiting or diarrhea, can alter the efficacy of many medications and can lead to serious problems.

Whether you are assembling a travel kit before visiting a tropical country or are recovering from dehydration, your pharmacist is there to recommend the right solution for your needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for personalized advice!