Traveller Diarrhea

Traveler’s Diarrhea is the most common illness that affects travelers. It is spread easily from person to person or by consuming contaminated food or water. It is caused by many diferent bacteria (including E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella and Campylobacter), parasites (including Giardia, Crytosporidium, Cyclospora and others) and viruses (such as norovirus and rotavirus). Unfortunately, it is very common among travelers in Asia.

Symptoms

Traveler’s Diarrhea usually begins abruptly during your trip or shortly after you return home, some cases improves within one to two days without treatment and clear up completely within a week. However, if you have 2- 3 in any of these symptoms, you might need to seek a professional attention.

WARNING SIGNS!!

• Diarrhea is bloody, with mucous or does not resolve within 1-2 days
• Diarrhea is accompanied by fever and chills
• Six or more loose stools in 24 hours
• Severe, unbearable pain in the abdomen or rectum
• Diarrhea accompanied by frequent vomiting
• Signs of dehydration
  • Thirst
  • Urinating less frequently than normal
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Dry mouth
  • Feeling tired
  • Sunken eyes or cheeks
  • Light-headedness or fainting
  • In children, additional signs of dehydration can include a lack of energy and the absence of tears while crying.

Complication

• When you lose body fluids, salts and minerals during your illness, you may become dehydrated.
• Dehydration is especially dangerous for children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
• Dehydration caused by diarrhea can cause serious complications, including organ damage, shock or coma.

Immediate Diagnostics

Blood Test

A complete blood count can show signs of infection, anemia, inflammation, or imbalances of electrolytes, to help determine the cause of your diarrhea.

Stool Test

This might be recommended to determine whether bacteria or a parasite is causing your diarrhea. A healthcare professional will give you containers for catching and storing your stool samples, as well as instructions on where to send or take the containers for analysis.

Reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/travelers-diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352182