Traveler's diarrhea is a stomach and intestinal infection that occurs because
of unsanitary handling of food. Food handlers who do not wash their hands after
they use the bathroom can transmit the infection to people who consume the
contaminated food.
Areas with the highest risk of contracting traveler’s diarrhea include the
developing countries of Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. The risk of
infection varies depending on the type of eating establishment visited -- from
fairly low risk in private homes to high risk in food from street vendors.
The most common culprit is a bacteria called E. coli.
What are the symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea?
The typical symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea include:
- Abrupt onset of diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement
- Malaise (weakness or discomfort)
- Explosive and painful gas
- Cramps
- Loss of appetite
Traveler’s diarrhea usually lasts from 3 to 7 days and is very rarely life
threatening.
How do I treat traveler’s diarrhea?
As with all diseases, it is best to consult a doctor rather than attempting
to self-medicate, especially if you are pregnant or if the afflicted person is a
child.
Preventive
Pepto-Bismol (2 ounces four times daily, or two tablets four times daily)
taken before and during international travel can help prevent many cases of
diarrhea. Pepto-Bismol should not be taken for longer than 3 weeks. When taken
for treatment, Pepto-Bismol decreases diarrhea frequency and shortens the
duration of the illness.
Side effects of Pepto-Bismol can include temporary blackening of tongue and
stools, occasional nausea and constipation, and rarely, ringing in the ears. Do
not take Pepto-Bismol if you have an aspirin allergy, renal insufficiency, gout,
or if you are taking anticoagulants, probenecid (Benemid, Probalan), or
methotrexate (Rheumatrex).
Treatment
The treatment of traveler's diarrhea requires the replacement of fluids and
salts lost from the diarrhea. This is best achieved by use of an oral
rehydration solution, such as the World Health Organization’s oral rehydration
salts (ORS) solution. ORS packets are available at stores or pharmacies in
almost all developing countries. ORS is prepared by adding one packet to boiled
or treated water. Packet instructions should be followed carefully to ensure
that the salts are added to the correct volume of water. ORS solution should be
consumed or discarded within 12 hours if stored at room temperature, or within
24 hours if it is refrigerated.