Addressing dehydration involves the administration of fluids, salts, and sugars, typically through oral intake (oral rehydration) or intravenous infusion. The necessary volume of fluid is contingent on factors such as the patient’s age, weight, and the extent of dehydration.
For mild dehydration commonly observed in numerous young children with diarrhea, oral solutions are generally effective and accessible in the form of effervescent tablets or powders that can be prepared at home. In instances of severe dehydration or when the patient is unable to consume fluids orally due to nausea or vomiting, a hospital setting might involve administering intravenous infusions of saline and/or glucose solutions.