We provide a full range of Traveller’s Diarrhoea treatments

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Traveller’s Diarrhoea

Traveller’s Diarrhoea Treatment

We provide a full range of Traveller’s Diarrhoea treatments and medication

Traveller’s Diarrhoea

Travellers’ diarrhoea (TD) is the most common illness experienced by travellers, affecting over 20% of those who travel to high-risk destinations of the world. It’s typically caused by ingesting contaminated food or water containing bacteria, viruses, or parasites. It usually resolves within a few days but can be severe and require medical attention.

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Pricing

Rifaximin (Xifaxanta) 200mg
9 tablets: £29.99

Signs & Symptoms

Frequent loose or watery stools
Abdominal cramps or pain
Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Bloating or gas
Blood in the stool (less common)
Dehydration, indicated by thirst, dry mouth, reduced urine output, or dark-coloured urine.

These symptoms typically develop within a few days of traveling to a new destination and can range from mild to severe.

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Claines Pharmacy 153 Ombersley Rd, Worcester, WR3 7BX

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Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Evans Pharmacy 231 Worcester Rd, Malvern, WR14 1SU

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What is the condition

Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common gastrointestinal illness that affects individuals visiting foreign countries, particularly those where sanitation and food hygiene standards differ from what they are accustomed to. It is most often caused by consuming contaminated food or water and is typically triggered by bacteria such as Escherichia coli, although viruses and parasites can also be responsible. The condition usually develops within the first few days of travel and is more likely to affect those visiting destinations in parts of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Central or South America. While often mild and self-limiting, it can be highly inconvenient and occasionally serious, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as young children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions.

What are the symptoms

Symptoms of traveller’s diarrhoea usually begin suddenly and include frequent loose or watery stools, often accompanied by abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, and an urgent need to use the toilet. Some individuals may also experience vomiting, a low-grade fever, and general malaise. In more severe cases, there may be signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, dizziness, and reduced urine output. While the illness typically resolves within a few days without treatment, persistent symptoms or the presence of blood in the stool may indicate a more serious infection requiring medical attention.

How to treat it

Treatment of traveller’s diarrhoea primarily involves preventing dehydration and allowing the body to recover. The cornerstone of management is rehydration using oral rehydration salts (ORS), particularly for children, the elderly, or anyone showing signs of fluid loss. Over-the-counter medications such as loperamide (Imodium) can be used in adults and children over 12 to reduce diarrhoea and improve comfort during travel, though it should not be used in cases of bloody diarrhoea or fever. In more persistent or moderate-to-severe cases, a short course of antibiotics such as azithromycin or ciprofloxacin may be prescribed, usually reserved for adults or children over a certain age, depending on the specific drug and local medical guidance. Medical advice should be sought before giving antibiotics to children. Probiotics may also be recommended to support gut health during and after the illness.

Side effects of treatment

The side effects of treatment for traveller’s diarrhoea depend on the type of medication used. Loperamide can cause constipation, stomach cramps, and in rare cases, drowsiness or dizziness. It should be used cautiously and only for short-term relief. Oral rehydration salts are generally safe with minimal side effects, though they may taste unpleasant to some individuals. Antibiotics, while effective, can cause gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or additional diarrhoea, and may disturb the natural gut flora. In rare cases, allergic reactions or antibiotic-associated colitis may occur. Probiotics are usually well-tolerated but can cause bloating or mild digestive discomfort in some people. It’s essential to follow dosing instructions and seek medical advice when symptoms are severe or prolonged, particularly in children or those with underlying health issues.