How to Deal With Traveller's Diarrhea After a Holiday

If you've come down with traveller's diarrhea (TD), also called Montezuma's revenge, you're not alone. It's estimated that 20 to 50 per cent of all international travellers will suffer from TD at some point during their trip.

What is Traveller's Diarrhea? 

Traveller's diarrhea is a gastrointestinal infection that is usually caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. The most common symptom is watery, loose stools. Other symptoms may include cramping, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and weight loss.

How Can I Treat Traveller's Diarrhea?

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to ease your symptoms and get back to enjoying your vacation. Here are tips for dealing with traveller's diarrhea:

1. Take Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut. They may also help reduce the severity and duration of diarrhea. Probiotics are available in supplement form or in certain foods, such as yogurt. 

It is important, however, to ensure you get the right kinds of probiotic bacteria. Make sure any supplements you take contain saccharomyces boulardii, which can prevent Traveller’s Diarrhea or hasten recovery. 

2. Drink Plenty of Fluids

It's important to stay hydrated when you have diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, and sports drinks. Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, which can make diarrhea worse.

3. Eat Small Frequent Meals

Instead of three large meals, eat several small meals throughout the day. This will help your body to absorb nutrients better.

4. Avoid Dairy and Fatty Foods

Dairy and fatty foods can be hard to digest and may make your diarrhea worse. Instead, focus on eating bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as rice, cooked vegetables, and chicken.

5. Eat High-Fiber Foods

Fibre can help to bulk up your stool and make it easier to pass. Good sources of fibre include whole-grain bread, fruits, and vegetables.

6. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol can make diarrhea worse. Avoid them until your symptoms have resolved.

7. Get Plenty of Rest

Resting will help your body to heal and recover from the infection.

8. See a Pharmacist

If your symptoms are severe or if you have blood in your stool, consult a pharmacist. You may need antibiotics to treat the infection.

Tips on Preventing Traveller's Diarrhea

1. Wash Your Hands

Make sure to wash your hands often and thoroughly, especially before you eat. Use soap and water, and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. 

2. Avoid Unsafe Food and Water

Only eat food that has been cooked and is still hot, and avoid food from street vendors. Stick to bottled water, and avoid ice cubes, unpasteurised dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself. 

3. Use Disinfectant

Use disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. 

4. Don't Share Personal Items

Avoid sharing personal items like towels and toothbrushes. 

5. Stay Healthy

Make sure to get enough rest and stay hydrated.

Conclusion

If you come from a holiday with a traveller's diarrhea, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably with electrolytes, and eat light meals. Avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol. If you have bloody diarrhea or severe abdominal pain, go and see a pharmacist.