What are the methods of rehydration for infants with diarrhea and dehydration?

Infant diarrhea must be treated promptly, because if the diarrhea is severe, it may lead to dehydration, which will cause greater harm to the baby. Infant dehydration must be promptly rehydrated to minimize the adverse effects of diarrhea and dehydration on the baby. Therefore, the most important thing is to take the baby to the hospital in time for correct infusion and treatment to reduce the harm.

1. It is estimated that 5 million children die from severe dehydration every year worldwide. Timely replenishment of lost water and electrolytes is the most important part of treating diarrhea. In the past, intravenous drip of electrolyte solutions containing an appropriate proportion, such as normal saline, glucose saline, etc., was often used. However, these treatment measures require certain equipment and the mastery of infant venipuncture technology, which is difficult for primary medical units.

2. The World Health Organization has prescribed a big prescription for children with diarrhea around the world - oral rehydration salts (ORS) to treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by diarrhea. Since its global promotion in 1967, hundreds of countries around the world have adopted it. After many countries and regions promoted oral rehydration therapy, the diarrhea mortality rate has dropped significantly. Every year, millions of children around the world survive through oral rehydration therapy, and it is generally recognized that it is a simple, safe, economical and effective fluid therapy. Its biggest advantage is that it does not require venipuncture and children can take it at home without having to stay in the hospital.

3. The oral rehydration salts sold in hospitals or pharmacies are prepared according to the oral rehydration salt ingredients recommended by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund. They contain 3.5 grams of sodium chloride, 2.9 grams of sodium citrate (or 2.5 grams of sodium bicarbonate), 1.5 grams of potassium chloride, and 20 grams of anhydrous glucose. Heat the solution to a volume of 7 to 1000 ml. It should be noted that the sugar concentration in this solution is 2%. This concentration is most conducive to the absorption of sodium and water, so sugar should not be added to avoid affecting the absorption of sodium and water. This solution can replenish dehydration and loss of sodium and potassium caused by diarrhea, and can correct acidosis. However, this liquid contains a lot of sodium. When the diarrhea is relieved, add more water when preparing the liquid to prevent hypernatremia.

4. Oral administration of Podo salts should be given from the onset of diarrhea. The dosage is 20-40 ml per kilogram of body weight, and it should be taken within 4 hours. It can be taken orally at any time thereafter. Drink as much as you can to prevent dehydration. If the baby is already somewhat dehydrated, the amount of fluid should be calculated at 75 ml per kilogram of body weight and should be taken within 4 hours. It can also be taken orally at any time thereafter and continued to be fed according to the baby's needs. The method of taking oral rehydration salts is: for babies under 2 years old, feed 1 teaspoon (about 5 ml) every 1-2 minutes. For older babies, use a cup to drink little by little. If vomiting occurs, stop for 10 minutes and then slowly start feeding one spoonful every 2-3 minutes. If your baby's eyelids become swollen, stop taking the oral rehydration salt solution and switch to boiled water or breast milk. After the edema subsides, continue taking the solution in the amount required to prevent dehydration.