You’ve planned the trip. Packed the essentials. The last thing you want is to spend it searching for the nearest toilet.
Traveller’s diarrhoea is the most common travel-related illness. It’s usually mild, but it can disrupt your journey — or worse, your health. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way.
What Causes Traveller’s Diarrhoea?
Most cases are caused by bacteria like E. coli, often found in contaminated food or water. Viruses and parasites can also play a role. It’s more common in areas with lower sanitation standards — parts of Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East.
Know Your Risk
You’re more likely to be affected if you:
- Travel to high-risk regions
- Have a weakened immune system
- Take acid-reducing medication
- Are very young or over 65
- Have underlying gut conditions
Signs to Look For
Symptoms can begin within a few hours or days:
- Sudden, loose or watery stools
- Cramping or bloating
- Nausea
- Mild fever
- Urgent need to use the toilet
Most cases resolve in 3–5 days. The key is to stay hydrated and rest.
How to Avoid It
Some simple steps can help you stay healthy abroad:
Eat smart
✔ Choose hot, freshly cooked food
✔ Avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruit, and street food
✔ Skip the ice — it may be made from unsafe water
Drink safely
✔ Bottled, boiled, or filtered water only
✔ Use bottled water to brush your teeth
✔ Carry oral rehydration salts — just in case
Stay clean
✔ Wash hands often
✔ Use sanitiser if water isn’t available
If You Do Get It
Most cases don’t need antibiotics. Focus on recovery:
- Rest
- Rehydrate — ORS is ideal
- Eat plain foods (bananas, rice, toast)
- Avoid dairy and alcohol
- Loperamide (e.g. Imodium) can help for short-term control
For moderate to severe symptoms, we may prescribe stand-by antibiotics before you travel — just in case.
When to Seek Help
Traveller’s diarrhoea is usually self-limiting, but you should get medical help if you have:
- High fever
- Blood in your stool
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 5 days
- Persistent vomiting
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine)
- Severe stomach pain
These could be signs of a more serious infection.
One Step Ahead of Travel Illness
At OneMedicine Clinic, we make travel health simple:
✔ Personalised advice
✔ Vaccinations
✔ Travel kits and stand-by medications
✔ Same-day appointments
Whether you’re backpacking or flying business, we’ll help you travel well.
Book your travel health consultation today.
