MrJazsohanisharma

Traveler's diarrhea (Montezuma's revenge)


Description

Traveler's diarrhea is an infection of the intestines that results from eating contaminated food or water. The most common type of bacteria that causes this disease is E. coli. Roughly fifty percent of all travelers that visit the developing world will develop traveler's diarrhea. The diarrhea is watery and usually does not contain blood.

Symptoms

Symptoms include, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, fatigue and decreased appetite.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis can usually be made based on history and exam findings. In some cases, blood tests or laboratory examination of the stool may be required.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Stool culture

Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology

Treatment

Treatment varies depending on disease. Fluid and electrolyte replenishment is the most important aspect of treatment. Most cases resolve after three to five days without antibiotic therapy. In severe cases, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin are used. Pepto-Bismol can also be used to help prevent traveler's diarrhea. Low doses of loperamide (Imodium) may be used to decrease the frequency of diarrheal stools, as long as the person does not have a fever or blood in the stool.
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