Q: Which doctor should I consult for traveler’s diarrhea?
A: A General Physician can be consulted for treating Traveler’s Diarrhea (TD). 2. Who gets traveler’s diarrhea?
Q: Who gets traveler’s diarrhea?
A: TD commonly affects travelers. People who are young adults, immunosuppressed, have inflammatory-bowel disease or diabetes, and taking H-2 blockers or antacids are at serious risk. The rate of attack is same in both men and women and primary source of infection is consuming food and water contaminated with fecal material.
Q: Is prophylaxis of traveler’s diarrhea advised?
A: In most cases, anti-microbial drugs are not recommended. However, some studies have shown that incidence of TD is reduced by use of bismuth subsalicylate along with antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis. Also, bismuth subsalicylate taken either 2 tablets 4 times a day or 2 fluid ounces 4 times a day decreases incidence of TD. Giving antimicrobials alone can raise susceptibility to resistant bacterial pathogens and no protection towards either viral or parasitic pathogen. Strict preventive measures are recommended and bismuth subsalicylate may be used as an adjunct if prophylaxis is required.
Q: What is the rate of incidence of traveler's diarrhea?
A: Every year between 20-50% of international travelers develop diarrhea. The onset of TD commonly occurs during the first week of travel, but may also occur at any time during travel or after returning home.
Q: How much lethal is traveler's diarrhea?
A: In adults, TD is rarely dangerous, but can be more severe in children.
