Traveler's Diarrhea
Key points
- Traveler's diarrhea is an infection of the intestines that affects about 50 percent of people who visit the developing world.
- Most episodes of traveler's diarrhea occur in the first or second week of the trip.
- People know they have traveler's diarrhea based on their symptoms.
- Many cases of traveler's diarrhea can be prevented.
What Is It?
Traveler's diarrhea is an infection of the intestines that affects about 50 percent of people who visit the developing world. It comes from eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. High-risk places, where clean water is not always available, include countries in Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Traveler's diarrhea usually is caused by bacteria. It also can be caused by viruses or parasites. The diarrhea is usually not serious and goes away without treatment. However, when diarrhea is very watery and occurs often, dehydration may occur, and dehydration can be more dangerous than diarrhea.
Symptoms
Most episodes of traveler's diarrhea occur in the first or second week of the trip. Symptoms vary depending on what organism causes the problem, but most people experience diarrhea, as well as fatigue, decreased appetite and abdominal cramps. Nausea and vomiting also may occur. Usually there is no blood in the stool (feces).
Diagnosis
People know they have traveler's diarrhea based on their symptoms. If symptoms last longer than five days or if you develop fever or abdominal pain, see a doctor. Your blood and stool may be tested for evidence of infection. In some cases, a doctor might be able to identify the infecting organism, which could lead to a specific treatment.
Expected Duration
The illness usually improves on its own within five days.
Prevention
Many cases of traveler's diarrhea can be prevented. Keep the following rules in mind, even in expensive resorts and hotels.
Alcohol does not sterilize water, so be cautious about contaminated water (including ice) used in mixed drinks.
- Carbonated beverages and bottled water are usually safe to drink, but don't use ice, which could be contaminated. Drink from the bottle with a straw, rather than out of a glass. The glass may have been washed with contaminated water.
- Purify water by boiling it for at least five minutes or using a water purification system.
- Hot coffee and tea usually are safe to drink because the water has been boiled.
- Don't eat fruits and vegetables unless they can be peeled, and you peel them yourself (to make sure that they are not contaminated after they are peeled).
- Avoid dairy products, unless you are sure they have been pasteurized, and avoid undercooked meat and fish.
- Wash your hands with the cleanest water available, or disinfect them with alcohol wipes before eating.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.