What Is Traveler’s Diarrhea? Causes & Getting Relief

Key takeaways:

• Traveler’s diarrhea is a common issue for people visiting new regions, often due to differences in types of food, availability of suitable drinking water, and sanitation practices.
• Staying hydrated, practicing good hand hygiene, and choosing bottled water and thoroughly cooked foods can lower your risk of experiencing traveler’s diarrhea.
• Most cases resolve within a few days, but if symptoms are severe or persist, medical treatment may be necessary to ensure a safe recovery.

Traveler’s diarrhea often catches travelers off guard, especially when exploring regions with unfamiliar food and water sources. Symptoms, including frequent loose stools, stomach cramps, and sometimes a mild fever, can disrupt travel plans and leave those affected feeling unprepared. However, with awareness and a few precautions, traveler's diarrhea can often be prevented or managed effectively, allowing travelers to enjoy their journeys with minimal interruption.

While traveler’s diarrhea usually isn’t dangerous, it’s important to know how to handle it and when to seek medical attention, so you can get back to enjoying your trip as quickly as possible. In this article, we’ll look at what causes traveler’s diarrhea, what symptoms to expect, and tips for treating and preventing it effectively. With the right strategies, you can minimize your risk and stay healthy while exploring the world.

Definition of traveler’s diarrhea

Traveler’s diarrhea is the term used when a person experiences loose, frequent stools and other stomach issues while traveling, usually due to exposure to bacteria or viruses in food or water. This condition most frequently impacts travelers visiting areas where food and sanitation practices differ significantly from their home environment.

Although it’s uncomfortable, it’s usually manageable with simple adjustments. However, for travelers with packed schedules or adventurous eating plans, it may require a little more caution and preparation.

Traveler’s diarrhea and contagiousness

While not highly contagious like the flu, traveler’s diarrhea can still spread through poor hygiene practices, especially when food preparation standards aren’t the same as at home.

For instance, handling shared utensils or foods without washing hands can inadvertently spread bacteria from one person to another. This is why good handwashing and avoiding communal dishes are smart practices to reduce the risk.

How long traveler’s diarrhea typically lasts

The length of traveler’s diarrhea varies, but most people find symptoms last around 3-5 days, with symptoms peaking within the first day or two.

Many cases resolve on their own, especially if you stay well-hydrated and avoid foods that could worsen symptoms. However, if diarrhea continues for more than 5 days, or if symptoms become more intense, seeing a healthcare provider is important to rule out other digestive issues.

Why traveler’s diarrhea happens

Traveler’s diarrhea can occur for a few key reasons, most of which relate to how the body responds to unfamiliar microbes or shifts in eating habits.

Contaminated food or water

The most common cause of traveler's diarrhea is exposure to bacteria like E. coli through contaminated food or water. Foods not washed or cooked thoroughly can introduce new bacteria into the body.

Changes in diet or routine

Trying new foods (such as those that are unfamiliar or spicy) and adjusting to a different meal schedule can disrupt your usual digestive balance. Additionally, changes in time zones and altitude, among other factors, can impact the body's homeostasis and circadian rhythm.

Stress and fatigue

Travel can be physically demanding, leading to stress and fatigue that make the body’s immune defenses slightly weaker. This stress can make the digestive system more susceptible to disturbances.

Read our guides on different types of diarrhea and common causes of diarrhea for more.

Symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea

Recognizing the symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea can help you identify it early and start treatment promptly.

Loose, watery stools

One of the primary symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea is frequent, watery stools, which often occur several times a day. This is due to the rapid movement of stool through the intestines, giving the body less time to absorb water. Staying hydrated is essential, as loose stools can lead to dehydration more quickly, especially in hot climates or high-altitude regions.

Stomach cramping and discomfort

Cramping and general discomfort in the stomach are common with traveler’s diarrhea. These cramps may vary from mild twinges to sharper, more intense pains that can make it uncomfortable to move around.

The cramping often results from irritation in the intestines as they process contaminated food or water. Resting, using a warm compress, or taking an anti-spasmodic medication (if recommended by a healthcare provider) may help alleviate cramping.

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and, in some cases, vomiting can accompany traveler’s diarrhea, especially if the illness is due to a bacterial or viral infection. These symptoms result from the body’s attempt to clear out any harmful substances in the digestive tract.

While nausea may lessen as the illness resolves, it’s essential to avoid solid foods during peak nausea and focus on clear fluids to stay hydrated. Small sips of water or electrolyte drinks can help manage nausea and replace lost fluids if vomiting occurs.

Fever

A mild fever (99 - 100.4°F / 37.2 - 38°C) may accompany traveler’s diarrhea as the body fights off infection. While mild, this fever can make you feel tired or chilled. However, it typically resolves once the body begins to recover. Drinking fluids and resting can help support the immune system during this phase.

A higher fever, exceeding 100.4°F (38°C), can indicate a more serious infection that may require medical evaluation. In cases where a high fever is present, it’s essential to seek healthcare guidance, as it could be a sign of a severe bacterial infection or other complications.

How to treat traveler’s diarrhea at home

While many cases of traveler’s diarrhea are mild, treating it early can reduce symptoms and help you recover faster.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential since diarrhea can cause fluid loss. Sipping water and electrolyte solutions can help replenish lost fluids and prevent dehydration. Be cautious with sports drinks high in sugar, which may upset the stomach.

Eat plain foods

Foods like rice, toast, applesauce, and bananas (often called the BRAT diet) are easy on the stomach and can help firm up stools. Avoid spicy or greasy foods until symptoms improve.

Consider anti-diarrheal medication

Medications like loperamide can help manage diarrhea in the short term. However, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before taking them, as they may not be suitable if an infection is suspected.

How to prevent traveler’s diarrhea

Taking preventive steps can make a big difference when traveling in unfamiliar areas.

Stick with bottled water

Even when brushing your teeth, use bottled or purified water to reduce exposure to contaminants. Avoid ice cubes made from tap water, which could carry bacteria.

Opt for cooked foods

Raw meats, seafood, and salads can introduce unfamiliar bacteria, so try to stick with thoroughly cooked options. Hot, cooked foods are less likely to harbor bacteria.

Practice hand hygiene

Washing your hands regularly with soap, especially before eating, can minimize the chances of infection. Hand sanitizer is also a great backup if soap and water aren’t available.

When to see a doctor about traveler’s diarrhea

While most cases of traveler’s diarrhea improve within a few days, there are situations where medical care is necessary.

You should see a doctor if:

• Diarrhea persists beyond a few days or worsens, even with dietary adjustments.
• You experience mild abdominal discomfort or cramping that doesn't improve.
• You notice a small amount of blood in your stool, which could indicate irritation or a more serious infection.
• You have a mild fever that persists or other symptoms that don’t subside with rest and hydration.

You should go to the emergency room if:

• You experience black, tarry stools, as this could signal internal bleeding.
• There is a significant amount of blood in your stool, which may indicate a severe infection or another serious gastrointestinal condition.
• Severe abdominal pain or persistent cramping develops.
• You experience symptoms of severe dehydration, such as dizziness, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat.

Questions to ask your doctor about traveler’s diarrhea

If symptoms persist, it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider. Consider asking questions such as:

• Are there specific foods I should avoid while traveling?
• What over-the-counter medications might help with my symptoms?
• Could my medications or diet be contributing to my symptoms?
• Should I be concerned about other digestive conditions?

How a doctor can help treat traveler’s diarrhea

In cases where traveler’s diarrhea is severe or persistent, doctors can provide a few options to help.

Prescription antibiotics

For bacterial infections, antibiotics can help clear the infection.

IV fluids for rehydration

If dehydration becomes significant, a doctor may recommend IV fluids to help restore hydration and electrolytes.

Anti-diarrheal medications

In some cases, doctors may recommend anti-diarrheal medications to control symptoms in the short term, especially when traveling.

Read our guide on treating diarrhea for more.

Frequently asked questions: traveler’s diarrhea

Below are common questions travelers have when managing traveler’s diarrhea.

How long is traveler’s diarrhea contagious?

Traveler’s diarrhea can remain contagious as long as symptoms are present, especially if it’s caused by bacteria or viruses. The primary mode of transmission is the fecal-oral route, meaning the infection can spread if someone comes into contact with even microscopic particles of infected stool.

Practicing thorough hand hygiene is essential to reducing the risk of transmission, especially after using the restroom. Travelers should be mindful to wash their hands with soap and water and use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.

What if you get traveler’s diarrhea after returning home?

Sometimes, traveler’s diarrhea symptoms may develop after you’ve already returned home, as the bacteria or virus causing the infection could have a delayed onset. It’s not uncommon for travelers to experience symptoms a few days after their return, especially if they were exposed to contaminated food or water close to the end of their trip.

Persistent traveler’s diarrhea could signal a more serious underlying infection or another digestive issue that may require testing or treatment. In such cases, doctors may conduct stool tests to identify the exact cause, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment for your recovery.

What antibiotics are used to treat traveler’s diarrhea?

Doctors may prescribe antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or azithromycin if they suspect a bacterial infection.

However, antibiotics aren’t always recommended and are generally reserved for moderate to severe cases with prolonged symptoms or a strong indication of bacterial infection. Overusing antibiotics can lead to resistance and is ineffective if a virus or parasite is the cause.

Final thoughts

If traveler’s diarrhea does occur, remember that most cases resolve within a few days with rest, hydration, and easily digestible foods. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or include signs like a high fever or blood in stools, seek medical advice. While common, traveler’s diarrhea doesn’t have to define your trip. With a few proactive steps, you can protect your health and enjoy your destination, ensuring you return home with great memories and minimal disruptions.

General Medicine follows a strict editorial process, including using real experts to write our articles, vetted primary sources, fact-checking, a secondary medical review, and updates as necessary. This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Dr. Lane Thaut, DO.

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