Traveler's Diarrhea

Learn more about Traveler's Diarrhea and other medical symptoms..

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Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness affecting travelers.

Incidence
Each year between 20%-50% of international travelers, an estimated 10 million persons, develop diarrhea. The onset of TD usually occurs within the first week of travel but may occur at any time while traveling, and even after returning home. The most important determinant of risk is the traveler's destination. High-risk destinations are the developing countries of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

TD is also known to mountaineers, as it can occur in camps due to inappropriate sanitary conditions.

Mexico has become so notorious for travelers' diarrhea that it has been named half in jest as Montezuma's revenge.

Treatment
Persons at particular high-risk include young adults, immunosuppressed persons, persons with inflammatory bowel disease or diabetes, and persons taking H-2 blockers or antacids. Attack rates are similar for men and women. The primary source of infection is ingestion of fecally contaminated food or water.

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All information published on this web site is for information purposes only. The content of this web site should not be used for a conclusive diagnosis or for choosing a treatment. The content on this site has been provided as a guideline and general information it is not intended to replace professional medical care. In all serious cases it is advisable to recieve attention from a qualified medical practitioner.