Rehüdratsioonivetele

Rehüdratsioonivetele, also known as rehydration solutions or oral rehydration solutions (ORS), are specially formulated mixtures of water, electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, and chloride), and carbohydrates (usually glucose). Their primary purpose is to rapidly replenish fluids and electrolytes lost from the body due to dehydration. Dehydration can occur due to various reasons including severe diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, fever, or insufficient fluid intake.

The effectiveness of rehüdratsioonivetele lies in their composition, which is designed to facilitate the absorption of water and electrolytes in the intestines. The presence of glucose aids in the active transport of sodium across the intestinal wall, and water follows this sodium gradient. This mechanism is significantly more efficient than simply drinking plain water, especially during episodes of gastrointestinal illness where normal absorption processes may be compromised.

Rehüdratsioonivetele are particularly crucial in treating dehydration in infants and young children, as they are more susceptible to severe dehydration and its complications. They are widely recommended by health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) as a first-line treatment for dehydration caused by diarrhea. Commercially available ORS packets are often mixed with safe drinking water at home, providing an accessible and life-saving intervention. In some cases, especially in clinical settings, intravenous rehydration may be necessary for severe dehydration, but ORS remains the preferred method for mild to moderate cases.