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ORS A Solution for Survival
ORS A Solution for Survival

In developing nations, acute diarrheal diseases and dehydration caused by them are one of the most significant causes of death in infants and young children. This dehydration can be managed orally and intravenously, with oral rehydration therapy being the most effective, simple to use, and worthwhile of the two options.

Definition: Dehydration is defined as the loss of water and dissolved salts from the body, occurring, for instance, as a result of diarrhoea and the correction of dehydration is called as Rehydration.

Oral Rehydration Therapy: The Solution is in Your Hands

WHO defines Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) as “The administration of fluid by mouth to prevent or correct the dehydration that is a consequence of diarrhoea”. This fluid consists of a special mixture of water, glucose and salts which help to replenish the lost electrolytes and water and bring it back to normal levels. ORT is an effective treatment method to manage dehydration and a powerful alternative to intravenous therapy.

The WHO Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development (CAH) in collaboration with UNICEF recommend Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) as the main strategy to achieve a reduction in diarrhoea-related mortality and malnutrition in children.

ORS Composition

Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) is the non-proprietary name for a balanced glucose-electrolyte mixture. ORS was approved, recommended and distributed by WHO and UNICEF for the first time in 1969 as a treatment option to manage dehydration throughout the world.

Reduced osmolarity solutions have been introduced by WHO and UNICEF, especially for children, to increase the safety and efficacy and subsequently reduce the stool output.

Reduced osmolarity ORSgrams/litreReduced osmolarity ORSmmol/litre
Sodium chloride2.6Sodium75
Glucose, anhydrous13.5Chloride65
Potassium chloride1.5Glucose, anhydrous75
Trisodium citrate, dihydrate2.9Potassium20
  Citrate10
  Total Osmolarity245

If ORS is unavailable, then a mixture of 6 level teaspoons of sugar, 1/2 level teaspoon of salt dissolved in 1 litre of clean water can be given to a child. Extra care must be taken while mixing the components as too much sugar can worsen diarrhoea and too much salt can be dangerous for the child.

How Oral Rehydration Works?

1.  In a healthy individual, water is continuously exchanged through the intestine’s walls. Nearly 20 litres of water is secreted and reabsorbed every 24 hours. This physiological process also allows the absorption of soluble metabolites (from the digested food) into our bloodstream.

2. In an individual suffering from diarrhoea, this balance of secretion and resorption gets disturbed, resulting in more secretion than resorption. This causes several litres of water loss in a day along with a significant reduction in sodium levels.

3. Sodium is an essential mineral present in the form of Na+ in blood plasma and body fluids i.e. extracellular fluids. Dehydration causes irregulated sodium levels and rapid depletion of water along with Na+. For proper functioning of the body, about 135-150 mmol/l of Na+ are required to be present in the extracellular fluid.

Do you know?
Depletion in more than 10% of the body fluids might result in acute kidney failure subsequently leading to Death.

4. If we only give saline solution to treat diarrhoea, it may worsen the situation. This is because the mechanism for Na+ absorption by the intestinal wall is impaired in diarrhoeal state and the presence of excess Na+ could further result in water secretion worsening diarrhoea.

5.  Adding glucose/dextrose to the saline solution initiates a “co-transport coupling mechanism” as a result of which, each molecule of glucose being absorbed by the intestinal wall helps in the transportation of one molecule of Na+. A relatively increased concentration of sodium inside the intestinal wall pulls water through it, as glucose only co-transports Na+ and not water.

Do you Know?
The co-transport coupling mechanism of Na+ and glucose is reported as “potentially the most important medical advance this century” by THE LANCET journal.

Other molecules with an aptitude to co-transport Na+ through the intestinal wall are amino acids, dipeptides and tripeptides. Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) is useful for the treatment of dehydration in patients suffering from prolonged diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, vomiting.

We @ Datt Mediproducts recommend oral rehydration solution as an excellent therapeutic technique for rehydration as “Rehydration Saves More Children

Visit www.dattmedi.com for more infomation.
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Wound Care for Athletes

Athletes constantly push their bodies to the limit, making them more prone to injuries and wounds. From minor cuts and bruises to more serious sprains and strains, managing these injuries effectively is crucial for maintaining peak performance and ensuring a swift recovery. This blog delves into effective wound care strategies for athletes and highlights how the innovative Velcool® cooling and compression bandage can play a pivotal role in their recovery.

Understanding Common Athletic Injuries

Athletic activities can lead to a variety of injuries, including:

  • Sprains and Strains: Overstretching or tearing of ligaments and muscles.
  • Bruises: Caused by impact, leading to bleeding under the skin.
  • Cuts and Abrasions: Resulting from falls or contact with rough surfaces.
  • Overuse Injuries: Such as tendonitis, caused by repetitive motion.

The RICE Method: A Foundation for Acute Injury Management

The RICE method is a tried-and-true approach for managing acute sports injuries. It stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, each component playing a vital role in minimizing damage and speeding up recovery.

  • Rest: Essential to prevent further injury and allow the body to begin the healing process. Avoiding stress on the injured area helps prevent exacerbation of the damage.
  • Ice: Applying ice reduces pain and inflammation by constricting blood vessels, limiting blood flow to the affected area.
  • Compression: Helps reduce swelling and provides support to the injured tissue by limiting fluid accumulation around the injury.
  • Elevation: Keeping the injured part above the level of the heart reduces swelling, associated pain, and discomfort.

Introducing Velcool® : Enhancing the RICE Method

Velcool®  is a state-of-the-art cooling and compression bandage that adheres perfectly to the principles of the RICE method. It offers several benefits that make it an indispensable tool for athletes.

Strategies for Effective Wound Care in Athletes

1. Immediate Attention:

  • Address injuries immediately to prevent them from worsening.
  • Use products like Velcool® for instant cold and compression therapy.

2. Proper Cleansing:

  • Clean cuts and abrasions thoroughly to prevent infection.
  • Use antiseptic solutions and keep the wound covered with sterile dressings.

3. Monitor Healing:

  • Regularly check the injury for signs of infection or complications.
  • Adjust the level of activity based on the healing progress.

4. Nutrition and Hydration:

  • 4a. Maintain a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support the healing process.
  • 4b. Stay hydrated to promote overall health and recovery.

5. Gradual Return to Activity:

  • Gradually reintroduce physical activity to avoid re-injury.
  • Follow a rehabilitation plan designed by a healthcare professional.

Effective wound care is vital for athletes to maintain their active lifestyles and ensure quick recovery from injuries. The RICE method provides a solid foundation for managing acute injuries, and innovations like the Velcool® cooling and compression bandage enhance this approach. By incorporating these strategies and utilizing advanced products, athletes can minimize downtime, promote healing, and get back to their peak performance levels swiftly.

For athletes and sports enthusiasts, embracing the right wound care techniques and products like Velcool® can make a significant difference in their overall health and performance. Stay active, stay safe, and ensure your body gets the care it deserves.

In moments of crisis, such as accidents or emergencies, being equipped with the knowledge and skills to administer proper wound care can make a critical difference in saving lives and preventing further complications. Whether you’re a bystander or the injured person themselves, understanding the essential steps of wound care in emergency situations is paramount. 

Here are some quick response tips to guide you through assessing and managing wounds effectively:

1. Assessment and Safety First –

The foremost priority in any emergency situation is safety. Before rushing to aid the injured person, take a moment to assess the surroundings for potential hazards. Ensure both your safety and that of the injured individual by identifying and eliminating any immediate dangers.

2. Control Bleeding –

One of the most crucial steps in wound care is controlling bleeding. Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or dressing. Elevating the injured area, if feasible, can help reduce blood flow and minimize bleeding. Prompt action in staunching the blood flow can prevent further loss and stabilize the individual’s condition.

3. Clean the Wound Quickly –

After addressing the bleeding, it’s essential to clean the wound promptly. Rinse the wound gently with clean water to remove any debris or foreign objects. In emergency situations, it’s advisable to avoid using strong antiseptics or solutions unless absolutely necessary, as they can cause further irritation or delay in treatment.

4. Apply Dressing and Bandage –

Once the wound is cleaned, cover it with a sterile dressing or a clean cloth to protect it from contamination. Secure the dressing in place using a bandage or cloth, ensuring it is snug but not too tight to impede circulation. Proper dressings help create an optimal environment for wound healing while preventing infection.

5. Seek Medical Assistance –

While initial wound care is essential, it’s crucial to recognize the severity of the injury and seek professional medical assistance promptly. Call emergency services or transport the individual to the nearest medical facility if the wound is severe, deep, or if bleeding persists despite initial measures. Timely medical intervention can prevent complications and facilitate proper wound management.

6. Prevent Shock and Comfort the Injured –

In addition to physical care, it’s vital to address the emotional and psychological needs of the injured person. Keep them calm and reassured to prevent shock, covering them with a blanket to maintain body warmth and comfort. Offering words of encouragement and support can go a long way in alleviating distress.

7. Continued Monitoring and Updates –

Even after administering initial first aid, it’s essential to continue monitoring the injured person’s condition until professional help arrives. Stay vigilant for any signs of deterioration or changes in vital signs, providing updates and relevant information to emergency responders upon their arrival. Your ongoing support and assistance can contribute significantly to the individual’s overall well-being and recovery.

Therefore, effective wound care in emergency situations requires a combination of swift action, sound judgment, and compassion. By prioritizing safety, controlling bleeding, cleaning the wound, seeking medical assistance, providing comfort, and monitoring the individual’s condition, you can help ensure the best possible outcome for the injured person. Remember, every second counts in an emergency, and your actions can make a lifesaving difference.

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