When is travelers diarrhea serious?

When is travelers diarrhea serious? It usually goes away without treatment in a few days. Dehydration from diarrhea can be serious. You need to replace body fluid that has been lost. See a healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe or last for more than a few days.

What happens if travelers diarrhea goes untreated?

It can be fatal if it's left untreated. In addition to being picked up from contaminated food or water, the bacteria or parasites that cause dysentery can be passed from person to person in close contact, or you can get it by swimming in unclean water.

Should I let travelers diarrhea run its course?

Traveler's diarrhea may get better without any treatment. But while you're waiting, it's important to try to stay hydrated with safe liquids, such as bottled water or water with electrolytes such as an oral rehydration solution (see below).

What are the symptoms of severe travelers diarrhea?

When should you go to the hospital for travelers diarrhea?

Call a doctor if you have diarrhea that is severe, lasts more than a few days or is bloody. If you are traveling, call an embassy or consulate for help locating a doctor. Other signs that you should seek medical attention include: A fever of 102 F (39 C) or higher.

What are red flags for Travellers diarrhea?

Seek medical attention if you have bloody diarrhea, high fever, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, profuse sweating, or signs of dehydration.

How serious is travelers diarrhea?

It can occur anywhere, but the highest-risk destinations are in Asia (except for Japan and South Korea) as well as the Middle East, Africa, Mexico, and Central and South America. In otherwise healthy adults, diarrhea is rarely serious or life-threatening, but it can make a trip very unpleasant.

Can travelers diarrhea get worse?

Although traveler's diarrhea is typically a benign, self-resolving condition, it can lead to dehydration and, in severe cases, significant complications.

How long does travelers diarrhea last untreated?

Untreated, bacterial diarrhea usually lasts 3–7 days. Viral diarrhea generally lasts 2–3 days. Protozoal diarrhea can persist for weeks to months without treatment. An acute bout of TD can lead to persistent enteric symptoms, even in the absence of continued infection.

Should you eat with travelers diarrhea?

Water or an oral rehydration solution is best. Drink at least 1 cup (240 milliliters) of liquid every time you have a loose bowel movement. Eat small meals every few hours instead of three big meals. Eat some salty foods, such as pretzels, crackers, soup, and sports drinks.