Fluids first

Why fluids matter

A fever, sweating and a runny nose all lose water. Staying hydrated thins mucus, soothes a sore throat and helps him feel less awful.

Little and often beats one big glass he abandons. Aim for a sip every few minutes rather than a pint every few hours.

What to offer

• Water, plain or with a slice of lemon.
• Weak tea, or herbal tea with honey.
• Warm lemon and honey for a sore throat.
• Squash or diluted juice if plain water feels boring.
• Clear soup or broth, which counts as a drink and a snack.
• Ice lollies, for a sore throat and for the comedy.

A simple routine

Tie drinks to things that already happen.

• One glass when he wakes.
• A warm drink with each round of medicine.
• A glass with every meal.
• A drink during each programme or episode.
• A last sip before sleep, with water left beside him.

Is he drinking enough?

Pale yellow urine is a good sign. Dark, strong-smelling or very little urine means he needs more.

Other signs of dehydration are a dry mouth, feeling dizzy when he stands, and extreme tiredness.

Tricks for the reluctant drinker

• A glass with a straw, so he does not have to sit up.
• A jug and a glass at the bedside, topped up each time you pass.
• Different temperatures: some men prefer iced, some hot.
• A reward: tea with a biscuit works better than a lecture.

When to get help

If he cannot keep fluids down, is passing very little urine, or seems confused or drowsy, he needs advice.

Call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency. Dehydration is the one place to stop joking.

Common questions

How much should he drink?

There is no magic number. Aim for steady sips through the day and pale urine. More if he has a fever or is sweating.

Do hot drinks help a sore throat?

Warm drinks soothe it for many people, as does honey in tea or warm water. Very hot drinks can make it worse.

What about coffee and fizzy drinks?

In moderation they count, but plain water and gentler drinks are better. Alcohol does not help.

A quick recap

• Little and often.
• Mix warm, cool and plain.
• Link drinks to meals and medicines.
• Check the colour of his urine.
• Get advice if he cannot keep anything down.