The name says it. Traveler’s diarrhea is the most common disease that can affect travel. Over 20% of international travelers are affected each year or about 10 million people. Normally it starts within the first week from arrival to destination, but in reality, it can arise at any time during the journey, even after returning home.
The highest risk destinations are the developing countries of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia and the primary source of infection is the ingestion of water and food contaminated by feces. As for the symptoms, in most cases the beginning is sudden: they increase the frequency, the volume and the weight of the evacuations and are accompanied by an alteration of the consistency of the stools. Other common symptoms may be associated such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, fever, urgency and general malaise. In 90% of cases, the problem is solved within a week.
Is it possible to prevent traveler’s diarrhea?
Minimizing risks is possible by avoiding food and drinks purchased in places where unhygienic conditions are present. Tap water, ice, and unpasteurized milk should also be avoided. Well cooked and preserved foods are usually safe.
In the case of traveler’s diarrhea what to do?
Traveler’s diarrhea is normally a disease that resolves without specific treatments, although oral rehydration is recommended to restore lost fluids. In this case, Diosmectite-based supplements, and aluminum-magnesium silicate used as an intestinal adsorbent, and mineral salts with rehydrating power are very useful. They are found on the market in convenient sachets containing powder for temporary oral suspension.