How to Mix ORS Solution — Dehydration and Diarrhea Guide

What Is ORS?

ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is a simple but life-saving mixture containing a scientifically balanced ratio of salt and sugar — it quickly restores fluids and electrolytes lost from diarrhea or vomiting. It's available affordably at every pharmacy and medical store in Pakistan.

How to Correctly Prepare ORS Solution

1. Take 1 litre of clean, boiled (and cooled) water — precise measurement matters
2. Add the full contents of one ORS sachet to the water
3. Mix thoroughly until the powder is completely dissolved
4. Store in a clean, covered container

CRITICAL: Never use less or more than 1 litre of water — the wrong concentration can be harmful, especially in children.

When and How to Drink ORS

• After every episode of diarrhea/vomiting — sip continuously
• Drink sip by sip — don't gulp a large glass at once, especially if vomiting
• Adults: 200-400ml after each loose motion
• For children: weight-based amount as advised by a doctor

How Long Can Mixed ORS Be Used?

Use the mixed ORS solution within 24 hours — avoid keeping it longer even if refrigerated, as there's a contamination risk. Discard leftover solution after 24 hours and prepare a fresh batch.

Signs of Dehydration in Children

• Dry mouth, no tears
• Little to no urination (6+ hours)
• Lethargy or irritability
• Sunken eyes
• Skin that's slow to bounce back when pinched

What Else to Do Alongside ORS

• Continue normal feeding (continue breastfeeding for infants)
• A zinc supplement for diarrhea, on a doctor's advice — reduces recovery time
• Temporarily avoid fatty or spicy food

ORS in Hot Weather

In Pakistan's intense summer heat, ORS isn't just for diarrhea — it's also very useful for heat exhaustion and dehydration from excessive sweating. This is especially important for laborers and outdoor workers.

EMERGENCY — Go to the Hospital Immediately

• A child can't keep any ORS down (repeated vomiting)
• Severe dehydration signs — sunken eyes, no urine, extreme lethargy
• Bloody diarrhea
• Persistent diarrhea with high fever
• The child is becoming unconscious or has seizures

Conclusion

ORS is a simple, affordable, and highly effective solution for preventing dehydration. The correct ratio and timing matter — 1 sachet per 1 litre of water, used within 24 hours. Don't delay if you see signs of severe dehydration — consult a doctor on Ilaaj AI immediately.