Bangkok: Six misconceptions about oral rehydration salts for diarrhea are being shared on social media, such as "any oral rehydration salts will do for diarrhea," "prepare one in a bottle and sip slowly," and "oral rehydration salts can treat other illnesses."
According to Thai News Agency, the "Check Before Sharing" center has fact-checked these claims with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tiwsuwan from the Department of Food and Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Chulalongkorn University. Dr. Tiwsuwan explains that while Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) do not directly inhibit or treat diarrhea, they are crucial for replenishing fluids and minerals lost through dehydration, which can prevent shock or weakness. To address the underlying cause of diarrhea, medication may be necessary as prescribed by a medical professional, such as activated charcoal to absorb toxins and pathogens from the intestines.
One common misconception is that any oral rehydration solution is suitable for diarrhea. This is false, as there are distinct differences between ORS designed for medical use and electrolyte powders intended for exercise. The latter is higher in sugar, which can exacerbate diarrhea by drawing water into the intestines.
Another misconception is that electrolyte drinks can relieve diarrhea and fatigue. This is also false. Popular home remedies like mixing clear soda with table salt are discouraged due to high sugar content in carbonated drinks, which can worsen symptoms by drawing more water into the intestines. Additionally, table salt alone does not provide the necessary balance of minerals needed by the body.
Conversely, it is advisable to consume ORS as soon as diarrhea begins to prevent dehydration. Properly mixing and consuming ORS powder can be an effective self-care measure. However, over-concentrating the solution by using less water than instructed can lead to increased sugar concentration and worsen diarrhea.
It is also recommended to sip the electrolyte solution slowly rather than consuming it all at once to avoid nausea and vomiting. Prepared electrolyte solutions should not be stored for more than 24 hours as pathogens can grow, potentially causing secondary infections.
Additionally, ORS powder can provide relief in cases other than diarrhea, such as severe vomiting or high fever, by replacing lost fluids and electrolytes.
Choosing the correct type of oral rehydration salts and following medical advice can effectively alleviate symptoms and prevent dehydration.