Hypovolemia , hyponatremia , hypokalemia & metabolic acidosis are the important fluid , electrolyte & acid base disorders in severe diarrhea patients . Acute kidney injury ( AKI ) is an important complication . Hypovolemic shock , severe metabolic acidosis & renal failure are the important causes of death . Oral rehydration solutions ( ORS ) in mild to moderate diarrhea , iv Ringer lactate in severe diarrhea are the ideal solutions for treatment for diarrhea . Isotonic saline may not be ideal solution , as they do not correct the severe metabolic acidosis & may worsen it . Please refer to my articles on RG on this topic .