Avoiding Traveler’s Tummy

Traveler’s tummy is a polite way of referring to the problem of traveler’s diarrhea that often afflicts first-world travelers in developing countries. It’s often caused by microbes the traveler’s system is unfamiliar with, though it can also be an effect of diet changes, long distance travel, stress and lack of sleep. It usually lasts for 24 to 48 hours but can become more severe.

To prevent this malady, stay hydrated but make sure you have access to clean drinking water. Rather than drink from the faucet (or even so much as brush your teeth or eat uncooked produce washed in tap water), go for bottled water. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and other diuretics, too.

Consider taking a daily dose of Pepto Bismol before you start your day. (Make sure this is approved by your doctor first). This will help prevent stomach illness related to foreign microbes.

And finally, be sure to bring anti-diarrheal medications like Immodium, and ask your doctor to prescribe a course of antibiotics for you to take with you in case of a severe illness. Your physician can instruct you on when to take Immodium versus the antibiotic, or when to take both.

If your symptoms become worse or last longer than a couple of days, seek medical attention as you could become dangerously dehydrated and/or have a more serious illness on your hands.