What happens after a telemedicine visit for Traveler’s Diarrhea

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for Traveler’s Diarrhea, you will usually receive advice on how to manage your symptoms at home. This often includes guidance on staying hydrated, using over-the-counter medicines, and when to seek further care. Your healthcare provider may recommend specific treatments based on your symptoms and travel history. Follow-up instructions may include monitoring for worsening symptoms or signs of dehydration. Telemedicine can help you get timely advice without needing to visit a clinic, but it’s important to watch for red flags that require urgent in-person care. Remember, this guidance is educational and does not replace a physical examination or emergency treatment if needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe dehydration signs such as dizziness, fainting, very dry mouth, or very little urine output — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) that does not improve with treatment — contact healthcare promptly.
• Blood or black stools, or severe abdominal pain — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and education
• Advice on hydration and diet
• Recommendations for over-the-counter medicines
• Prescriptions for appropriate medications when indicated
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care or emergency services

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination
• Laboratory testing (stool cultures, blood tests)
• Intravenous fluid administration
• Treatment of severe dehydration or complications
• Emergency interventions

What to expect immediately after your telemedicine visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and travel details. They may suggest ways to stay hydrated, such as drinking oral rehydration solutions or clear fluids. You might get advice on diet, rest, and medicines to reduce diarrhea or relieve cramps. If needed, prescriptions may be sent to a pharmacy. You should receive instructions on how to monitor your condition and when to seek more help.

Managing symptoms at home

Most cases of Traveler’s Diarrhea improve within a few days with self-care. Key steps include:

Keep track of your symptoms and fluid intake.

When to seek urgent care

Contact a healthcare provider or emergency services if you experience:

These may require in-person evaluation and treatment.

Follow-up and monitoring

Your provider may recommend follow-up if symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen. This could be another telemedicine visit or an in-person exam. Keep a record of your symptoms, any medicines taken, and fluid intake to share during follow-up.

Limitations of telemedicine for Traveler’s Diarrhea

Telemedicine can provide advice and prescribe medicines but cannot perform physical exams, lab tests, or intravenous treatments. If your condition is severe or unclear, an in-person visit may be necessary. Always follow instructions on when to get urgent care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your current symptoms and when they started.
• Know your recent travel history and destinations.
• Prepare a list of any medicines or supplements you are taking.
• Have access to a device with a camera and microphone for the tele-visit.
• Be in a quiet, private place with good internet connection.
• Have a way to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the hydration and diet advice provided by your healthcare provider.
• Take any prescribed or recommended medicines as directed.
• Monitor your symptoms closely, noting any changes or worsening.
• Seek urgent care if you notice any red flag symptoms.
• Schedule or attend follow-up appointments if advised.
• Maintain good hand hygiene and food safety practices to prevent recurrence.

FAQs

Can I get antibiotics through telemedicine for Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Sometimes, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics if your symptoms are severe or if you have risk factors. However, antibiotics are not always needed and are used carefully to avoid resistance.

How long should my symptoms last after treatment?

Traveler’s Diarrhea often improves within 2 to 3 days with proper care. If symptoms last longer or worsen, you should contact your healthcare provider.

Is it safe to travel after having Traveler’s Diarrhea?

It's best to wait until your symptoms have fully resolved before traveling again. Continuing to travel while sick can worsen your condition and spread infection to others.

What fluids are best to drink when I have Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Oral rehydration solutions are ideal because they replace fluids and electrolytes. If these are not available, clear fluids like water, broth, or diluted fruit juices can help.

Can I eat normally during Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Eating bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast is usually recommended. Avoid spicy, fatty, or dairy foods until you feel better.

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 — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.