What fluids should be given for acute gastroenteritis: a complete analysis of the scientific fluid rehydration plan
Acute gastroenteritis is a common digestive system disease, often accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, and can easily lead to dehydration. Proper rehydration is one of the key aspects of treatment. This article will provide you with a detailed analysis of liquid selection options for acute gastroenteritis based on recent medical hotspots.
1. Principles of rehydration for acute gastroenteritis

According to the latest guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), rehydration should follow the following principles:
| Rehydration type | Applicable situations | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| Oral rehydration solution (ORS) | Mild to moderate dehydration | Preferred regimen with glucose and electrolytes |
| intravenous fluids | Severe dehydration/inability to take food orally | Medical supervision is required and attention should be paid to the infusion speed |
2. Specific plan for intravenous rehydration
According to the 2023 "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diarrhea", the following intravenous rehydration combinations are recommended:
| liquid type | Ingredient characteristics | Applicable stage | infusion rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.9% sodium chloride | isotonic solution | Initial rapid rehydration | 20ml/kg/h (children) |
| Lactated Ringer's solution | Contains various electrolytes | maintenance phase | Adjust according to degree of dehydration |
| 5% glucose + electrolytes | replenish energy | After vomiting is relieved | slow infusion |
3. Recent hot research progress
1.Hypotonic solution controversy: A study in The Lancet in August 2023 pointed out that hypotonic solutions may be better than isotonic solutions under certain circumstances, but more clinical verification is needed.
2.A new perspective on zinc supplementation: The latest WHO recommendation is to include zinc supplementation in the treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children, which can shorten the course of the disease by 20%.
3.Probiotic applications: A recent meta-analysis showed that specific probiotic strains can reduce the need for intravenous rehydration by up to 35%.
4. Handling special situations
| patient type | Fluid adjustment | Taboo |
|---|---|---|
| infants | Slow down the infusion rate | Avoid hypertonic solutions |
| elderly | Monitor heart function | Limit sodium intake |
| Chronic disease patients | Individualized plan | Be aware of drug interactions |
5. Home care suggestions
1.Recognize the signs of dehydration: Decreased urine output, dry mouth, sunken eye sockets, etc. require prompt medical treatment.
2.Oral rehydration tips: A small amount several times, 5-10ml each time, 1-2 teaspoons per minute.
3.dietary transition: After vomiting stops, start with rice soup and gruel, and gradually return to normal diet.
6. Expert reminder
The director of the Gastroenterology Department of Peking University Third Hospital recently emphasized in a live broadcast of health science:"Rehydration for acute gastroenteritis is not simply drinking water, electrolyte balance is the key. Replenishing the lost amount within 6 hours for severely dehydrated patients can significantly reduce the risk of complications."
Summary: Rehydration for acute gastroenteritis requires an appropriate solution based on factors such as degree of dehydration and age. Oral rehydration is preferred for mild dehydration, while intravenous rehydration is required for moderate to severe dehydration. New research suggests that combining zinc and probiotics may optimize treatment effectiveness. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as persistent vomiting, bloody stools, or changes in consciousness occur.
check the details
check the details