Traveler's diarrhea

Overview

E. coli is the most common cause.

Bloody stool or high fever needs a doctor.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Diarrhea while traveling
• Recently traveled out of the country

Less common

• Cramps
• Nausea
• Fever

When to get medical care

Causes

Germs in food or water.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Travel to some countries

Possible complications

• Dehydration

Diagnosis

Usually no tests.

Questions you may be asked

• Where you traveled

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Stool test: If severe or lasting.

Treatment

Stay hydrated.

Self-care

• Drink oral rehydration solution
• Eat bland foods
• Wash hands

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it
• Use bottled water

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an infectious disease specialist, if it's hard to treat.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Clears in days.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Traveler's diarrhea