Those who travel to tropical areas look forward to sun, beach and relaxation. However, exotic foods and hot temperatures can cause problems for the immune system. Gastrointestinal diseases are not uncommon. Although most traveler’s diarrhea is harmless, it often disrupts the vacation routine and well-being.
the causes and symptoms of travelers’ diarrhea
- unfamiliar foods
- low hygiene standards
- travel stress
- exotic climate
- the time change
Infection can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or amoebas. The human intestine is populated by several trillions of benign bacteria that form the natural intestinal flora. This can be disrupted and thrown out of balance by foreign bacteria and germs. The most common causes of diarrhea when traveling are some toxic strains of E-coli bacteria. A typical symptom is watery diarrhea. In the worst case, symptoms such as fever or bloody stools can occur in addition to nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
How can you protect yourself?
- It is best to always boil tap water or drink sealed bottled water.
- You should avoid ice cubes in drinks, not only because they are often made from contaminated tap water.
- It is best to avoid buffet dishes in exotic countries, as bacteria multiply quickly in fresh food that has been left for a long time.
- When brushing your teeth in risk areas, it is best to use sealed bottled water.
- It is better not to eat raw or undercooked food such as steaks, mussels or raw fish.
- You should always wash or disinfect your hands thoroughly before and after eating.
What helps against traveler’s diarrhea?
- Avoid tap water as this can be the cause of diarrhea.
- Eat easily digestible things like rusks, pretzel sticks
- Greasy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, so you should rather avoid such foods.
- Obtain electrolyte powder from the pharmacy to mix up a rehydration solution.
- In an emergency, you can also make your own electrolyte solution: Boil a liter of water, add two tablespoons of sugar and a level teaspoon of salt.
- Better avoid cola. The caffeine contained in cola stimulates the intestines and aggravates symptoms such as diarrhea.
