Diarrhoea After Traveling: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Returning from a trip only to be bedridden by persistent diarrhoea? This is a common problem, especially after staying in countries where water and food differ from those in Quebec. As a family physician and medical director, originally from France and settled in Quebec for several years, I have often seen patients return with digestive issues—some mild, others more serious. Should you wait or seek help? How can you relieve symptoms quickly? At Allodocteur.ca, we can help you obtain a home doctor visit or a telemedicine consultation to evaluate the situation and prescribe an appropriate treatment.

Why do we get diarrhoea after traveling?

Post-travel diarrhoea, also known as traveller's diarrhoea, often occurs after ingesting food or water contaminated by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

The main causes:

🔹 Bacterial infections: Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter.

🔹 Viral infections: Norovirus, Rotavirus.

🔹 Parasites: Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica.

🔹 Microbiota imbalance: dietary changes or the use of antibiotics.

🔹 Food poisoning: ingestion of poorly preserved or contaminated food.

When to consult a doctor?

In most cases, diarrhoea disappears within a few days. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, a medical consultation is necessary.

✅ You have a high fever (> 38.5 °C).

✅ Your stools contain blood or are blackish.

✅ You are suffering from dehydration (fatigue, dizziness).

✅ Your diarrhoea has lasted for more than 7 days.

✅ You have returned from a tropical country where dangerous parasites circulate.

💡 Need a rapid evaluation? At Allodocteur.ca, we offer medical consultations with same-day availability, via telemedicine or at home in Montreal. You don't have to wait for days to see a doctor; we come directly to your home!

What to do to relieve diarrhoea after traveling?

1. Stay well hydrated

• Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and coffee).

• Use oral rehydration solutions (e.g., Gastrolyte®).

2. Adapt your diet

• Recommended foods: rice, potatoes, applesauce, broths.

• To avoid: dairy products, spicy dishes, excessive fibre.

3. Take probiotics

• They help restore the disrupted intestinal flora.

4. Medication if needed

• Loperamide (Imodium®): effective but should be avoided in case of fever or bloody stools.

• Antibiotics: only if prescribed by a doctor.

💡 Do you need a prescription quickly? Our doctors at Allodocteur.ca can see you for a consultation without the wait and prescribe the necessary medications directly.

Preventing diarrhoea during your next trips

🌍 Before leaving:

💉 Consult a doctor for vaccines and advice tailored to your destination (hepatitis A, typhoid).

💊 Take probiotics as a preventive measure.

🍽️ During the trip:

Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water, even for brushing your teeth.

🍛 Avoid raw foods (salads, unpeeled fruits, undercooked meats).

🧼 Wash your hands regularly with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Conclusion

Traveller's diarrhoea is common and, in most cases, disappears spontaneously. However, if it persists or is accompanied by worrying symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor.

🏡 Too tired to travel? No problem! With Allodocteur.ca, you can see a doctor without leaving your home. Book an appointment online in a few clicks and get a consultation the same day.

📅 Book now on Allodocteur.ca and benefit from rapid access to a family physician. **Your health cannot wait!**🚑