$Unique_ID{BRK00187}
$Pretitle{
Digestive System
Community and Social Problems}
$Title{What Can You Do About "Traveler's Diarrhea"?}
$Subject{traveler diarrhea treatment}
$Volume{I-12, Q-12}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can You Do About "Traveler's Diarrhea"?


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QUESTION:  Everybody seems to have another scheme for traveler's diarrhea.  As
our long planned and awaited trip comes closer, we are more anxious about not
losing precious time from our costly vacation to the "runs".  What's your
advice?

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ANSWER:  Since traveler's diarrhea is usually caused by consuming contaminated
food or water in foreign countries where sanitation may be unsatisfactory, the
most effective strategy regarding the problem is to be aware of the many
sources of infection and then to avoid them.  Certain foods that have been
contaminated with E. coli or other common pathogens (disease causing bacteria)
are the primary cause of the disorder, so the first precaution to only well
cooked foods piping hot.  Sauces served at room temperature are among the most
hazardous and should be avoided at all costs.  Though peeled fresh fruit is
usually safe, fresh fruit juice should be avoided.  The moist nature of a
fresh salad creates a prime environment for bacterial growth, so it is
advisable not to eat salads while traveling abroad as well.  Bread, on the
other hand, is usually safe, even when it's left out on a table.
     Water is a second serious cause of infection and even if it is
satisfactorily treated in purification plants, it may still arrive
contaminated at the tap.  Tap filters do not decontaminate, so water should be
boiled for a minute and then chilled before drinking.  Treating water with
sterilization tablets is another option, though it usually effects the taste.
The alcohol in alcoholic beverages kills organisms and is therefore safe to
consume, but bear in mind that if drinks are served with ice, the ice may
cause infection.  Bottled water and bottled carbonated beverages pose no
threat.
     Despite efforts to prevent this condition, travelers may still develop
the problem.  In such cases, fluid replacement with mineral water, tea, clear
soup, or carbonated beverages is essential for preventing dehydration.  In
mild to moderate cases, further treatment should include a nonantibiotic agent
such as bismuth subsalicylate suspension.  However, be warned that it may turn
the stool black.  In more severe cases, with high fever, or if symptoms do not
improve within two days, antibiotic therapy may be called for, and you may
require the services of a local physician.
     Whatever the case, diet is a key factor in recovering from a bout
of traveler's diarrhea.  Milk and dairy products should be eliminated from the
diet during the acute phase, as should caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and
most fruits, vegetables, and meat.  Bland foods such as clear soup, crackers,
bread, and toast are advisable to start with, and as the diarrhea subsides,
rice, potatoes, and chicken soup (why not?) with rice or noodles can be added.
When the stools regain consistency, bakedfishor chicken, applesauce, and
bananas should be introduced to the diet before other foods that may aggravate
the system.
     Since the safety of antidiarrheal drugs taken during pregnancy is
unknown, it is worth mentioning that pregnant women should avoid travel into
areas recognized as potentially hazardous whenever possible.
     By taking all these precautions, and maintaining a moderate schedule that
neither fatigues nor stresses you, and with just a little bit of luck, you
should be able to avoid one of the less pleasant aspects of travel, and enjoy
your much anticipated vacation.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
