Oral Rehydration: Care Instructions

Overview

Dehydration occurs when your body loses too much water. This can happen if you do not drink enough fluids or lose a lot of fluid due to diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, or fever. Being dehydrated can cause health problems and can even be life-threatening.

To replace lost fluids, it helps to drink liquids that contain special minerals called electrolytes. Electrolytes keep your body working well. Plain water does not have electrolytes. You also need to rest to prevent more fluid loss.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take frequent sips of an electrolyte replacement drink. These can be found in grocery stores and drugstores. Examples of these are Pedialyte and Rehydralyte. These replace both fluid and important minerals called electrolytes you need for balance in your blood.

• Do not drink any alcohol. It can make you dehydrated.

• Drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.