Traveler's diarrhea: How to prevent and treat it

Traveler's diarrhea, also known as "turista", is a common condition affecting people traveling to areas where sanitary conditions are different from those to which they are accustomed. As a French-born family physician and medical director who completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec, I'd like to share some tips for understanding, preventing and treating this condition to keep your travels enjoyable.

What is traveler's diarrhea?

Traveler's diarrhea is a gastrointestinal condition caused primarily by the consumption of food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites. Typical symptoms include frequent, watery stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and sometimes fever.

Causes and risk factors

The main causes of traveler's diarrhea are :

-Bacteria: Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, Salmonella and Shigella are the most common culprits.

-Viruses: Norovirus and rotavirus can also cause symptoms.

-Parasites: Parasites such as Giardia lamblia can be a cause, although less frequently.

Risk factors include :

- Travel to regions with poor sanitary conditions.

- Consumption of untreated water or undercooked food.

- Inadequate personal hygiene.

Prevention

Prevention is the best weapon against traveler's diarrhea. Here are a few tips to reduce your risk:

1)Drink bottled water: Always drink sealed bottled water. Avoid ice cubes in drinks, as they may be made from contaminated water.

2)Avoid raw foods: Avoid eating raw fruit and vegetables, unless you can peel them yourself. Give preference to well-cooked foods.

3Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

4Eat in reputable places: Choose restaurants and food stalls that look clean and where hygiene standards are respected.

5Cholera vaccine: An oral cholera vaccine, such as Dukoral, can be used to prevent certain causes of traveler's diarrhea. This vaccine protects against Vibrio cholerae, a bacterium responsible for cholera, and partially against the toxins produced by certain strains of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), one of the main causes of traveler's diarrhea. We recommend that you consult your physician to assess the suitability of this vaccine for your destination and your state of health.

Treatment

If, despite all precautions, you develop traveler's diarrhea, here are some steps to manage the situation:

1Hydration: Dehydration is the main concern. Drink plenty of bottled water, oral rehydration solutions (available in pharmacies) or isotonic drinks.

2Rest: Rest and avoid strenuous physical activity.

3Medication: Antidiarrheals such as loperamide can be used to reduce symptoms, but do not use them if you have a fever or blood in the stool. Antibiotics may be necessary in certain severe cases; consult a doctor for a suitable prescription.

4Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore normal intestinal flora.

When should you see a doctor?

It is important to consult a doctor if :

- Symptoms persist for more than a few days.

- You have a high fever or bloody stools.

- You show signs of severe dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, extreme fatigue).

By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of traveler's diarrhea and make the most of your adventures abroad. Stay alert and take care of your health when traveling.

Need advice or a medical consultation?

If you have any questions or need a medical consultation, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team of doctors at Allodocteur.ca is here to help, whether you need preventive advice before you leave or treatment if you get sick while traveling. Book an appointment online for a home consultation or teleconsultation. Have a good trip and take care of yourself!

Please let me know if you need any additional information or if you would like to make any changes to this article.