How to prepare for a video visit about Traveler’s Diarrhea

Audience: adult

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common illness affecting many people who travel to new places. It usually causes loose stools, stomach cramps, and sometimes nausea. Most cases improve on their own within a few days. Preparing well for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the best advice and care. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, recent travel history, and any medicines you have taken. The provider may give you tips on managing symptoms, preventing dehydration, and when to seek further care. Remember, telemedicine can help with education and guidance but cannot replace an in-person exam when serious symptoms occur. Being ready with information and questions will make your video visit more effective and supportive.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe dehydration signs: dizziness when standing, very dry mouth, little or no urination — seek urgent care.
• Blood in stools or black, tarry stools — contact healthcare immediately.
• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) lasting more than 24 hours — get prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and travel history.
• Providing advice on symptom management and hydration.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care.
• Answering questions about prevention and treatment options.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or laboratory tests.
• Administering intravenous fluids or medications.
• Diagnosing severe or complicated infections requiring urgent care.
• Managing emergencies or severe dehydration.

What is Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Traveler’s diarrhea is an upset stomach caused by eating or drinking contaminated food or water during travel. It often leads to frequent loose or watery stools, stomach pain, and sometimes vomiting or fever. It usually lasts a few days and can be uncomfortable but often gets better without special treatment.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, such as how long you’ve been sick, the number of bowel movements, and any other signs like fever or dehydration. They will also ask about your recent travel destinations and what you ate or drank. This helps them understand your risk and decide if you need medicine or tests.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, when they started, and any medicines or home treatments you have tried. Have a list of your recent travel locations and foods or drinks you consumed. Make sure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet. Find a quiet, private place for the visit.

Managing Symptoms at Home

Most travelers’ diarrhea improves with rest and fluids. Drinking plenty of water or oral rehydration solutions helps prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and very sugary drinks. Eating simple, bland foods like bananas, rice, and toast may help. Your provider may recommend over-the-counter medicines if appropriate.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you have signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, dry mouth, or little urine), bloody stools, high fever, severe belly pain, or symptoms lasting more than a few days, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. These could be signs of a more serious illness.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and their severity.
• List any medicines or remedies you have already used.
• Prepare details about your recent travel locations and foods or drinks consumed.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Find a quiet, private space for your video visit.
• Have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the hydration and dietary advice given by your provider.
• Take any recommended medications as instructed.
• Monitor your symptoms closely, noting any changes or worsening.
• Seek in-person care if you notice any red flag symptoms.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent spreading infection.

FAQs

What causes traveler’s diarrhea?

Traveler’s diarrhea is usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites found in contaminated food or water during travel.

Can I take medicine to stop diarrhea during travel?

Some over-the-counter medicines may help reduce symptoms, but you should discuss this with a healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.

How can I prevent traveler’s diarrhea?

Avoid drinking untreated water, eating raw or undercooked foods, and practice good hand hygiene. Drinking bottled or boiled water and eating cooked foods can reduce risk.

When should I see a doctor in person?

Seek in-person care if you have severe dehydration, blood in stools, high fever, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms lasting more than a few days.

Is traveler’s diarrhea contagious?

Yes, it can be contagious if proper hygiene is not followed. Washing hands regularly helps prevent spreading the infection to others.

Sources

1. Traveler’s Diarrhea — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Traveler’s Diarrhea — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Traveler’s Diarrhea — Mayo Clinic.
4. Traveler’s Diarrhea: Prevention and Treatment — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.