Travelers' diarrhea is a common travel-related condition.Vacationers usually contract it from contaminated water or food.
Bacteria and viruses produce symptoms within six to 72 hours.
If a parasite causes the infection, the incubation time can be one to two weeks.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Treatment options can range from drinking clear fluids to taking over-the-counter (OTC) drugs or antibiotics.
If it’s bacterial, it typically lasts three to seven days, untreated.
Severe cases of bacterial diarrhea can last weeks.
If protozoa (single-cell parasites) are to blame, the condition could last months without treatment.
Possible antibiotics include:
Can OTC Medicine Help?
You may findover-the-counter(OTC) relief products for mild travelers' diarrhea at a local drugstore.
It should not be used if you have a fever or blood in the stool.
To keep this from occurring, it’s essential to stay hydrated.
You do not gain immunity to the organisms after you recover.
You must continue to be vigilant in avoiding sources of contamination.
Avoiding Sources of Contamination
Travelers' diarrhea is linked to contaminated food or drinks.
If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based cleansers or wipes.
Also, keep your hands away from your mouth at all times.
These include:
A restricted or bland diet is no longer recommended when you have diarrhea.
You should return to your normal diet after the diarrhea resolves.
A community of microorganisms (thegut microbiome) populates the gut and assists with digestion and nutrient absorption.
you’re free to try consumingprobioticsevery day or two to remedy this situation.
Probiotics contain some of the beneficial microbes normally found in the gut.
This can help reintroduce good bacteria to the gut and replenish them.
But remember not to continue on this regimen for more than three weeks.
In such cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic.
Summary
Travelers' diarrhea is resulting from consuming contaminated water or food.
It is usually bacterial but may also be resulting from a virus or parasite.
Hydration is crucial when managing travelers' diarrhea.
you’re free to take Imodium or Pepto-Bismol for a mild case to relieve symptoms.
Taking Pepto-Bismol to prevent travelers' diarrhea is a consideration.
Preventive antibiotics are not recommended for most people.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Persistent diarrhea in returned travelers.
American College of Gastroenterology.Diarrheal diseases acute and chronic.
Mount Sinai.Traveler’s diarrhea diet.
University of Florida Health.Travelers diarrhea diet.
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