Oral rehydration solution (diarrhoea, vomiting, heat)
DRAFT: not yet checked against the sources. When in doubt, ask a doctor or rescuers.
First minutes
- Take 1 litre of boiled and cooled (or clean bottled) water.
- Add 6 level teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 level teaspoon of salt. Stir.
- Taste: it should be only slightly salty, like tears. Never saltier.
- Drink in small sips, often. Vomiting: wait 10 minutes, then continue even more slowly.
- Keep covered; drink or discard within 24 hours.
- Keep drinking until thirst and dryness pass and urine is pale and frequent.
Do NOT
- × Add more salt or sugar "for strength": dangerous.
- × Give to babies or small children without a doctor.
- × Replace it with soda or juice.
- × Rely on it alone if: blood in stool, severe weakness, confusion, persistent fever. See a doctor.
Next
Return to normal food as soon as possible. Diarrhoea beyond 2 days or signs of severe dehydration: doctor.
Source: WHO home recipe: 6 level teaspoons sugar + 1/2 level teaspoon salt per 1 litre water; check. Not for infants without a doctor