Traveler's Diarrhea: 7 must-knows to prevent it

Traveling is fun but if you're not being careful, an unpleasant  experience could happen. Even with the food we eat, some foods might be  contaminated and mostly are new foods for the sake of discovering  different tastes and experiences. Naturally, our body has its own way of  adjusting to a new type of intestinal bacteria which could to  traveler's diarrhea. It can also be from viruses or parasites.

Symptoms:

• diarrhea/loose stools (average passing  5 watery stool per day)
• fatigue
• nausea and vomiting
• weakness
• abdominal cramps
• borborygmi - increase intestinal noises or gurgling

Traveler's  diarrhea is rarely fatal and it usually goes away in a  day or two  without treatment. However, you must watch out for dehydration,  especially in children. If you are experiencing diarrhea, it is  important to drink plenty of water or fluids. It is advisable to take 2  glasses of liquid after toileting. For severe diarrhea, take oral  re-hydration formulas to replace the fluid and electrolyte lost during  the illness.

When to seek a doctor?

• does not end within a week
• develop a high-grade fever (38.3C)
• dehydration
• persistent vomiting
• blood on stool

Prevention:

• Maintain good hygiene. Wash your hands often, before and after eating.
• Eat freshly cooked and well-cooked foods
• Avoid foods from street vendors
• Avoid raw and under-cooked foods
• Avoid drinks served with ice
• Consume sealed bottled or canned water or drinks
• Use bottled water for brushing the teeth