Traveler’s Diarrhea – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
To figure out if someone has travel-related diarrhea, health professionals usually:
- Ask about recent travel, especially to areas with different sanitation or food handling practices.
- Inquire about foods or drinks consumed, including street food, untreated water, or raw produce.
- Check for physical signs like dehydration, abdominal cramps, or low blood pressure.
- Look for symptoms such as frequent loose stools, fever, nausea, or the presence of blood or mucus in the stool.
If diarrhea is severe, persistent (lasting more than 2–3 days), or accompanied by high fever or blood, doctors may order tests to better understand the cause. These may include:
- Stool cultures to detect bacteria like Escherichia coli, Salmonella, or Shigella.
- Ova and parasite (O&P) tests to check for parasites like Giardia or Entamoeba histolytica.
- PCR tests to identify specific bacterial or viral pathogens more rapidly.
- Blood tests if there are signs of systemic infection or significant fluid loss.
These tests help doctors decide whether treatment is needed and what kind—especially in cases where antibiotics or antiparasitic drugs may be appropriate.
Ways to Manage Traveler’s Diarrhea
Preventing Fluid Loss
Staying properly hydrated is a top concern if someone has traveler’s diarrhea. Diarrhea causes the body to lose water and vital electrolytes, which are important for normal body function.
Without enough fluids, dehydration can happen quickly, especially in children and older adults.
The most effective method to restore lost fluids and salts is to use an oral rehydration solution (ORS). ORS contains water, salts, and a little sugar that help the body absorb fluids better.
Pharmacies and stores often sell these solutions in pre-packaged bottles or packets. Many places offer a World Health Organization (WHO) ORS formula that pharmacies or health agencies worldwide supply.
Those who do not have access to commercial oral rehydration products can make a simple version at home. To do this, combine:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Table salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Clean water | 1 quart (about 1 liter) |
| Sugar-free flavoring | Optional |
Mix them together until dissolved. Only use clean bottled or boiled water to prepare the solution.
Drink this homemade or store-bought rehydration drink in small sips throughout the day. Taking in small amounts at a time lowers the chances of vomiting.
Breastfeeding babies can keep nursing as usual while also receiving sips of the hydration solution.
Signs of dehydration to watch for include:
- Extreme thirst
- Mouth feeling dry
- Feeling dizzy or weak
- Making very little urine
If any of these symptoms do not get better or become worse, find a doctor right away.
Tip: Keep oral rehydration packets in travel bags as a basic safety measure.
Other safe drinks include bottled water, clear soups, and broths. Avoid alcohol, soda, and fruit juices, as they can make diarrhea worse.
See the table below for do’s and don’ts when dealing with dehydration caused by diarrhea:
| Action | Recommended | Not Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| ORS (bottled or homemade) | ✔️ | |
| Continuing breastfeeding (infants) | ✔️ | |
| Drinking clear broths | ✔️ | |
| Soft drinks, juices, or caffeinated sodas | ✖️ | |
| Alcoholic beverages | ✖️ | |
| Unfiltered tap water | ✖️ |
Everyday Actions and Home-Based Relief
To help relieve traveler’s diarrhea, drink plenty of safe fluids such as bottled water, clear soup, weak tea, or sports drinks. Avoid drinking from contaminated water sources.
Foods to try as you recover:
- Salted crackers
- Plain rice
- Bananas
- Applesauce
- Dry toast or bread
- Cooked potatoes
- Plain noodles
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and dairy, which can make symptoms worse. Introduce easy-to-digest foods first. When feeling better, return slowly to regular meals.
Tip: If possible, boil it, cook it, or peel it to lower the risk of unsafe food.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Details to Collect Before Your Appointment
Prepare for a doctor’s visit by asking if you should take any steps before your visit, such as dietary changes or self-care measures. Write down all symptoms, when they started, and how they have changed.
Note if you have any of the following:
- High fever (102°F/39°C or higher)
- Severe or ongoing diarrhea
- Blood in stools
- Continuous vomiting
- Signs of dehydration like dry mouth, muscle cramps, less urine, dizziness, or tiredness
List any other health problems you have. Include all prescription or over-the-counter medicines, as well as vitamins or supplements.
If you have just been abroad, share details about your trip, such as where you went and how long you stayed.
Travel details help your doctor figure out the cause of your symptoms and check for illnesses found in certain countries.
Make a list of questions to ask during your appointment. These might include:
| Main Question | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| What is causing my symptoms? | Finds out the reason for your illness. |
| Could something else be responsible? | Checks for other possible causes. |
| What tests or checks might I need? | Understands what exams could help diagnose the problem. |
| What treatments do you suggest? | Learns about possible medicines or remedies. |
| Are there side effects with any medication? | Helps you avoid unwanted reactions. |
| Should I avoid certain foods or drinks? | Protects your stomach and aids recovery. |
| How long to expect for full recovery? | Sets clear expectations for getting better. |
| Am I contagious? | Keeps others from getting sick. |
| How can I prevent this in the future? | Offers tips for better travel health and prevention. |
Bring your questions with you, and add more during the visit if needed.
Questions Your Healthcare Provider Might Ask
Expect your healthcare provider to ask several questions to better understand your situation. They may want to know:
- What symptoms are you having, and when did they start?
- Did you recently travel or return from another country? If yes, where and for how long?
- Have you taken antibiotics in the last few weeks?
- Are your symptoms getting better, worse, or staying the same?
- Is there any blood in your stool?
- Do you show any signs of dehydration? (Muscle cramps, tiredness, dry mouth, dizziness, less urination)
- Did you try any treatments before making the appointment?
- Are you able to keep down food or fluids?
- Are you currently pregnant or being treated for any other health issues?
The doctor will ask these questions to help pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and decide how you can recover. Share as many details as you can. Accurate answers help your healthcare provider choose safer and faster treatments.
Tip: For those who are traveling or just returned home, noting travel dates and locations can be especially helpful. If you have trouble finding medical care during travel, contact your embassy or consulate for help finding local healthcare providers.
