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This week on Health Watch, we’ve been talking about taking summer trips to foreign destinations. You may be vaccinated against serious diseases before travel, but the most common health ailment facing travelers to developing countries face is travelers’ diarrhea.
Dr. Luis Lara, a digestive diseases expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says most cases are relatively mild and only require fluids and anti-diarrhea medication, though people with existing health conditions, infants and the elderly may be more at risk and might need medical treatment with antibiotics. The best way to deal with travelers’ diarrhea is to avoid it by being careful about what you eat or drink. If you do get sick, get plenty of fluids and eat as you’re able to tolerate food. Symptoms of travelers’ diarrhea may occur up to two weeks after you return home.
Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/digestive to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in digestive disorders.
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July 2008
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