Browse Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Treating Dehydration

Therapy aims to rehydrate the body, replace lost electrolytes, and prevent complications. If an underlying cause is identified, therapies to treat that condition may be included if appropriate.

Treatment includes:

Fluid Replacement

To help replace fluids:

Drink a small amount of clear liquid every 15 to 30 minutes. For small children, this may mean 1 teaspoon every few minutes initially.
Increase the amount of liquid as you can tolerate it.
Stick with clear liquids, such as sports drinks or a special electrolyte solution, for the first 24 hours.
If you cannot keep any liquids down, try sucking on ice cubes.
Avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks. These promote fluid loss.
Avoid sweetened drinks, fruit juices, and gelatin because they can make diarrhea worse.
If you are unable to adequately replace fluids and your condition does not improve, contact your doctor. You may need intravenous fluids or other medical care.

Nutrition

Dietary modifications include:

If you have diarrhea but no vomiting, continue eating small amounts of food frequently.
If vomiting, once you can keep fluids down, slowly and gradually return to a regular diet.
Eat a well-balanced diet with fruits, starches, and fluids.
Only eat small amounts of red meat and proteins.
Avoid spicy foods and milk products until your symptoms are gone.

Medication

Medications may include:

Anti-emetics-for severe vomiting
Antidiarrheal medicine-for severe diarrhea or abdominal cramping
Antibiotics-for severe diarrhea caused by a bacterial infection

Next: Preventing Dehydration

Talk about it in the:
Dehydration Support Group

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