Dehydrated? How to Make a Lifesaving DIY Rehydration Drink for Cholera Recovery

Cholera is a fast-acting, waterborne disease that causes severe diarrhea and vomiting, often leading to rapid dehydration. When not managed properly, this condition can be fatal, especially in children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. In such emergencies, timely and effective cholera rehydration becomes the difference between life and death. One of the most powerful tools in cholera management is not a drug, it is a simple, cost-effective drink called the oral rehydration solution (ORS).

Why Rehydration is Critical in Cholera

Cholera triggers a sudden and severe outflow of fluids through watery diarrhea, often referred to as "rice-water stools" because of its pale, milky appearance. This leads to a dangerous loss of body fluids and essential minerals. If not replenished quickly, the body suffers from:

• Hypovolemia (low blood volume)
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Metabolic acidosis
• Renal failure
• Shock and multi-organ failure

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that without adequate rehydration, cholera can kill within hours. Hence, the top priority is to restore the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance.

The primary goal of rehydration therapy is to:

• Replace lost fluids (up to 10% of body weight can be lost within hours)
• Restore critical electrolytes like sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate
• Maintain blood circulation
• Prevent kidney damage and loss of consciousness

What is Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)?

ORS is a precisely formulated blend of water, salt, and sugar that optimizes fluid absorption in the intestines. Unlike plain water, which passes through the body without replacing electrolytes, ORS uses the sodium-glucose co-transport mechanism to actively pull water and salts into the bloodstream.

The WHO-recommended ORS formula contains:

• Sodium chloride (NaCl): 2.6 g
• Glucose (anhydrous): 13.5 g
• Potassium chloride (KCl): 1.5 g
• Trisodium citrate dihydrate: 2.9 g
• Clean water: 1 liter

This formulation is scientifically balanced to maximize absorption and prevent overhydration or imbalances.

Signs of Dehydration- When to Act Fast

Early recognition of dehydration can prevent complications. Watch for these symptoms:

Mild to Moderate Dehydration:

• Dry mouth and cracked lips
• Decreased urination or dark yellow urine
• Irritability or restlessness
• Sunken eyes
• Thirst and fatigue

Severe Dehydration:

• Lethargy or unconsciousness
• Cold, clammy skin
• Rapid heartbeat and breathing
• Little or no urination
• Low blood pressure
• Muscle cramps

When in doubt, you can always get an Electrolytes, Serum test done along with Complete Blood Count (CBC) at your nearest Lupin Diagnostics Center, to help diagnose it.

Immediate rehydration is crucial at the first signs of fluid loss.

DIY Rehydration Drink- The Homemade ORS Recipe

If commercial ORS packets are unavailable, a homemade oral rehydration solution can be prepared using common kitchen ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 6 level teaspoons of white sugar (approx. 30 grams)
• 1/2 level teaspoon of salt (approx. 2.5 grams)
• 1 liter of clean drinking water (boiled and cooled, if needed)

Instructions:

1. Wash hands thoroughly.
2. Mix sugar and salt into the water using a clean spoon.
3. Stir until both ingredients dissolve completely.
4. Taste: It should be slightly salty, not overpowering.
5. Store in a clean, covered container and use within 24 hours.

This simple drink can be lifesaving. The right balance is key; too much salt or sugar can worsen diarrhea or cause additional health risks.

Pro Tips for Safe and Effective Hydration

1. Start Early: Don’t wait for severe symptoms. Begin hydration as soon as diarrhea starts.
2. Frequent Sips: Give small amounts regularly, especially if the patient is vomiting.
3. Measure Intake: Track how much ORS is consumed and ensure it is replenishing lost fluids.
4. Keep It Clean: Always use clean water, utensils, and containers.
5. Continue Nutrition: Don’t stop feeding children or adults during diarrhea. Light, easily digestible foods help recovery.

Variations and Emergency Substitutes

While the homemade ORS is most effective, in dire situations some substitutes can provide short-term relief:

• Coconut water: A natural source of electrolytes but low in sodium.
• Rice water: The liquid drained from boiled rice can soothe the gut and provide some glucose.
• Thin vegetable broth: Contains salt and potassium, useful in emergencies.

Note: These are not ideal replacements and should be used only until proper ORS is available.

Special Guidelines for Children and the Elderly

Children under 5:

• Are most vulnerable to rapid fluid loss.
• Should be given small spoonful’s or sips every 1-2 minutes.
• Continue breastfeeding if applicable.

Older adults:

• Monitor carefully for confusion, dizziness, or sudden lethargy.
• Often under-report symptoms, so observe physical signs closely.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Although ORS is effective, there are situations where professional intervention is needed:

• Persistent vomiting (unable to retain fluids)
• Continuous, profuse diarrhea
• Signs of hypovolemic shock
• Unresponsiveness or fainting
• ORS not improving symptoms within 4-6 hours

In such cases, intravenous fluids and antibiotics may be required.

How Much ORS is Enough?

According to WHO:

• Children <2 years: 50-100 mL per kg body weight over 4 hours
• Children 2-10 years: 100-200 mL per kg
• Older children and adults: Up to 2-4 liters in 4 hours

After each diarrheal episode:

• Under 2 years: 50-100 mL
• 2-10 years: 100-200 mL
• Adults: 200-400 mL

Storing and Handling Homemade ORS

• Always prepare a fresh batch every 24 hours.
• Store in a covered, clean container.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place.
• Discard leftovers after 24 hours to avoid bacterial contamination.

What to Avoid in Rehydration

Avoid giving patients:

• Sugary sodas or fruit juices
• Caffeinated or alcoholic drinks
• High-salt soups or broths
• Energy drinks or fizzy beverages

These can worsen dehydration or cause electrolyte disturbances.

Empowering Families During Outbreaks

During cholera outbreaks, empowering families with knowledge of hydration techniques can save many lives. Each household should:

• Have salt, sugar, and clean water ready
• Know how to prepare ORS and when to use it
• Understand basic hygiene and handwashing
• Avoid unsafe drinking water and contaminated food

Simple public education campaigns and posters can reinforce this knowledge during health crises.

Building a Cholera Emergency Kit

For areas prone to outbreaks, preparing a small home kit is smart:

• Packets of WHO ORS (available at pharmacies)
• Sugar and salt in labelled containers
• Measuring spoon or syringe
• Clean water bottles
• Towel and soap

Such a kit can be lifesaving in emergencies or travel scenarios.

In the fight against cholera, knowledge is as powerful as medicine. Knowing how to prepare a DIY rehydration drink and when to use it can prevent unnecessary deaths. Cholera may strike fast, but with the right hydration strategy, its impact can be drastically reduced.

Teach your family. Share with your community. Keep the ingredients in your kitchen. This is how you make your home the first line of defence.