Researchers Discover Drinking Extra Fluids During a Cold May Not Be Beneficial

Newswise -- Doctors should be cautious about advising patients with respiratory infections to drink plenty of fluids, warn researchers in this week's British Medical Journal (BMJ).

Their view is based on evidence that, during a respiratory infection such as a cold or bronchitis, the body releases large amounts of a water-conserving hormone (known as anti-diuretic hormone). Thus giving extra fluids while anti-diuretic hormone secretion is high may theoretically lead to salt loss and fluid overload.

They searched the scientific literature, but were unable to find any trials providing definite evidence that giving increased fluids to patients with respiratory infections may cause harm.

"Until we have this evidence, we should be cautious about universally recommending increased fluids to patients, especially those with infections of the lower respiratory tract," the researchers conclude.

To see the entire paper, go to: http://bmj.com/cgi/content/full/328/7438/499

Source: British Medical Journal