Pronounced: Traveler’s die-ah-ree-ah by Shara Aaron, MS, RD
Traveler's diarrhea is diarrhea in people who travel to
international destinations. It often happens in less developed
countries. The primary cause of traveler’s diarrhea is ingesting
food or water that contains feces. The substance carries a
bacteria, virus, or parasite that causes the diarrhea. Examples
of agents that can cause the diarrhea include: The pathogen that
causes the infection will partly depend on the area of travel.
Risk Factors TOP The most important risk factor for getting
traveler’s diarrhea is the destination. Underdeveloped countries
with unsafe water supplies pose the highest risk. The following
factors increase your chance of getting traveler’s diarrhea. If
you have any of these risk factors and plan to travel
internationally, tell your doctor: Symptoms can include: Your
doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A
physical exam will be done. A stool sample may be taken. This
will allow your doctor to identify the