Hyderabad: With the onset of the monsoon, Hyderabad continues to experience a spike in seasonal flu, influenza, and other respiratory infections. With growing prevalence of viral fevers and respiratory infections, healthcare professionals are emphasizing the critical role of maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance to support recovery process. According to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a similar spike was noted in March 2023, with strains like H1N1 and H3N2 being major contributors.
Dr. Priti Thakor, Medical Safety Sciences Restorative (India) and Digestive Health (APAC) Kenvue said,explains, “During respiratory infections like the common cold, cough, and other viral URTIs, the body often loses fluids and electrolytes due to fever induced sweating and increased respiratory rate. These illnesses result in dehydration, which if often overlooked by individuals can delay recovery and exacerbate symptoms. Electrolyte drinks like ORSL® are scientifically formulated to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes and play a vital role in supporting recovery.
Often signs of dehydration are missed during respiratory infections. During respiratory infections, the body loses fluids through sweat, increased breathing, coupled with reduced intake due to symptoms like sore throat and taste fatigue. Dehydration may impair immunity and delay the recovery from infections. It is crucial to restore both fluids and electrolytes for maintaining normal bodily functions. Adding energy in the form of glucose is also beneficial, as it helps to meet the increased energy demands during such non-diarrheal illnesses.
While traditional Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) solutions are typically used to combat dehydration, they are best suited for diarrheal conditions and might not fully address the energy goals in patients with respiratory infections. In a Knowledge Attitude & Practices study conducted with Indian Physicians, 87% of physicians agreed that fluids, electrolytes and energy supplementation given to patients with upper respiratory tract infections as adjuvants can help improve the speed of recovery of patients. Ready-to-serve electrolyte drinks, such as ORSL®, are scientific formulations which provide fluids, electrolytes, and energy, offering a convenient palatablesolution for maintaining hydration and supporting recovery during such non-diarrheal illnesses. Certain ready-to-serve electrolyte drinks may also contain additional electrolytes or ingredients like magnesium which can support muscle function as well as micronutrients like Zinc, Selenium to additionally support immune function.
Amidst ongoing monsoons, while tropical fevers and respiratory infections continue to surge, recognizing the importance of hydration and electrolyte replenishment is essential to improving patient outcomes.
The information provided are scientific facts only and not a substitute for any professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor for more information on Dehydration during Non-Diarrheal respiratory infections.