It’s that time of year when colds and cough are frequently encountered symptoms by everyone. On average, adults contract 4 to 6 colds per year. Colds and coughs can be allergic in nature or associated with bacteria and/or viruses infections commonly known as upper respiratory tract infections (URTI).

According to India’s National Health Portal, more than 4 million cases of respiratory tract infections were reported in 2019. In addition to cough, the patient may experience symptoms such as sore throat, fever, muscle pain, runny nose, nasal obstruction and may feel tired, but what. Signs of dehydration tend to be missed or overlooked in these conditions.

What is dehydration?

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Abdul Majid Khan, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist at Olive Hospital, Hyderabad, said, “Dehydration means depletion of body fluids due to either excessive losses or reduced intake , or both. All types of fluid loss contain electrolytes in varying amounts, so fluid loss is always accompanied by some degree of electrolyte loss. This is called silent dehydration because it can be missed due to lack of awareness. Silent dehydration is a widespread concern that is also seen due to colds and coughs associated with upper respiratory infections. Electrolytes such as sodium and chloride help maintain the balance of body fluids, while potassium, calcium and magnesium contribute to the proper functioning of nerves and muscles.

He explained: “In upper respiratory infections, the fever itself leads to dehydration (fluid and electrolyte deficit) due to excessive sweating and increased breathing. Additionally, as the body uses energy to fight infection, increased energy needs can lead to energy deficits. A sore throat, which is a common initial symptom, can interfere with fluid intake, worsening dehydration. The deficit is further amplified due to insufficient food and fluid intake, cumulatively leading to fluid electrolyte energy deficits.

Impact of fluid, electrolyte and energy losses in URTI

According to Dr. Abdul Majid Khan, fluid, electrolyte and energy deficit in cases of viral infection and URTIs can lead to muscle pain, muscle cramps and muscle weakness. He explained: “Additionally, dehydration can lead to thickened secretions that become difficult to clear from the lungs. Dehydration can also negatively impact respiratory symptoms like coughing, weaken immunity, delay healing and increase the risk of recurrent infections. In a Knowledge Attitude and Practices study of Indian doctors, these deficits in upper respiratory infections were found to have a significant impact on recovery. The patient may continue to experience fatigue and muscle pain, which will interfere with recovery.

How can oral electrolyte drinks fight dehydration for colds and coughs?

In the same study, it was found that 87% of doctors agreed that fluids, electrolytes and energy supplements given to patients with upper respiratory infections as adjuncts could help improve speed healing of patients. Dr. Abdul Majid Khan highlighted –

• An international association called the American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (APSEN) recommends drinking 60 to 120 ml of clear liquids containing electrolytes and calories every 15 minutes to thin respiratory secretions during such illnesses. This indicates the importance of focusing on the restoration of fluids, electrolytes, and energy in upper respiratory infections.
• Susceptibility to muscle cramps increases with water consumption alone. Therefore, consuming electrolytes with water can help relieve muscle pain and cramps. During infections, carbohydrate intake must be maintained to protect against the breakdown of muscle protein for energy.
• Although fluids and electrolytes can be replenished by WHO standard ORS (Oral Rehydration Solutions), they are primarily suitable for diarrheal conditions.
• In conditions such as fever and other non-diarrheal illnesses, energy-containing electrolyte drinks can play an important role in recovery. This is supported by an Indian expert panel whose recommendation suggests that the use of WHO ORS generally fails to meet energy targets in non-diarrheal conditions due to their low sugar content. Additionally, the highly salty taste of WHO ORS makes them unpalatable, which may affect compliance.
• Adding energy (glucose) to liquid and electrolyte drinks helps meet energy needs as well as taste requirements. Some ready-to-serve electrolyte drinks may also contain additional electrolytes or ingredients like magnesium that can support muscle function as well as micronutrients like zinc and selenium to support immune function as well.
• Although there are readily available and accessible homemade and coconut water options to address electrolyte and energy deficits associated with upper respiratory infections, ready-to-serve electrolyte drinks may also be considered. Such formats contain a known concentration of fluids, electrolytes and energy with acceptable taste and hygienic packaging that help replenish fluids, electrolytes and energy and can assist the patient in the recovery process.

Dr Abdul Majid Khan concluded: “Patients with colds and coughs associated with upper respiratory infections develop silent dehydration and energy deficits due to fever, sore throat and infection itself. This can lead to muscle pain and cramping which can interfere with recovery. These hydroelectrolyte and energy deficits must be filled with an appropriate format so that the patient can recover more quickly. It would be advisable to consult your doctor if you have high fever, cough, constant muscle pain or symptoms of dehydration like dry tongue, dark urine, etc.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have regarding a health problem.