Diarrhea after a trip: causes, prevention and treatment

Just back from a trip and bedridden by persistent diarrhea? It's a common problem, especially after a stay in countries where the water and diet differ from those in Quebec. As a family doctor and medical director of French origin who has lived in Quebec for several years, I have often seen patients return with digestive problems, sometimes benign, sometimes more serious. Should I wait or consult? How can symptoms be relieved quickly? At Allodocteur.cawe can help you get a home or telemedicine consultation to assess the situation and prescribe the right treatment.

Why do people get diarrhea after traveling?

Post-travel diarrhea, also known as traveler's diarrhea, often occurs after ingesting food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites.

The main causes :

🔹 Bacterial infections: enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter.

🔹 Viral infections: Norovirus, Rotavirus.

🔹 Parasites: Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica.

🔹 Microbiota imbalance: dietary changes or taking antibiotics.

🔹 F ood poisoning: ingestion of poorly preserved or contaminated food.

When should you see a doctor?

In most cases, diarrhea disappears within a few days. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek medical advice.

✅ You have a high fever (> 38.5°C).

✅ Your stools contain blood or are blackish.

✅ You are suffering from dehydration (fatigue, dizziness).

✅ Your diarrhea has lasted more than 7 days.

✅ You've just returned from a tropical country where dangerous parasites are circulating.

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What can be done to relieve diarrhoea after a trip?

1. Stay well hydrated

-Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and coffee).

-Use oral rehydration solutions (e.g. Gastrolyte®).

2. Adapt your diet

-Recommended foods: rice, potatoes, compote, broths.

-Avoid: dairy products, spicy dishes, excess fibre.

3. Take probiotics

- They help restore disturbed intestinal flora.

4. Medication in case of need

-Loperamide (Imodium®): effective, but avoid in cases of fever or bloody stools.

-Antibiotics: only if prescribed by a doctor.

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Prevent diarrhea on your next trip

🌍 Before you leave :

💉 Consult a doctor for vaccinations and advice appropriate to your destination (hepatitis A, typhoid).

💊 Take probiotics for prevention.

🍽️ During the trip :

🚰 Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water, even when brushing your teeth.

🍛 Avoid raw foods (salads, unpeeled fruit, undercooked meats).

🧼 Wash your hands regularly with soap or hydroalcoholic gel.

Conclusion

Traveler's diarrhea is common and, in most cases, disappears spontaneously. However, if it persists or is accompanied by worrying symptoms, it's essential to consult a doctor.

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