Traveler’s Diarrhea and Kids

Traveler’s diarrhea can put a real damper on your summer vacation. In fact, it is the most common disease for both kids and adults when they travel. It typically occurs as a result of the unsanitary handling of food, but cases have also been linked to waterborne transmission as well.

We’ve compiled the symptoms, best treatments, when you should see your pediatrician or head to our Mesa Pediatric Urgent Care, and how to prevent this common summer illness

Symptoms of Traveler’s Diarrhea

The typical symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea are:

1. diarrhea

2. nausea and vomiting

3. weakness

4. painful gas

5. cramps

6. loss of appetite

Traveler’s diarrhea usually lasts from 3-7 days and is rarely life threatening but traveling with a little one suffering from the symptoms can be no fun.

Treatment for Traveler’s Diarrhea

Over the counter drugs can help decrease the diarrhea and shorten the duration of the illness, but it’s important to consult a doctor when treating children or infants as some drugs are dangerous and not recommended for children. Since traveler’s diarrhea is caused by bacteria, antibiotics will also typically reduce the duration and severity. Seek medical help for traveler’s diarrhea if:

1. diarrhea is severed, bloody, or does not resolve within a few days

2. diarrhea is accompanied by fever and chills

3. you (of your child) is unable to keep fluids down

Preventing Traveler’s Diarrhea

To keep traveler’s diarrhea from occurring, select beverage and food choices carefully. Drink boiled water, hot beverages made from boiling water like tea and coffee, and canned or bottled water. Avoid ice, as it may have been made from contaminated water. You should avoid foods that are uncooked like cold salads, uncooked fruits and vegetables, and raw meat and shellfish. Food that has been cooked and is still hot should be safe.

Mesa Pediatric Urgent Care and Gilbert Pediatric Urgent Care

Children often present different symptoms than adults and may need different prescriptions and treatments. At AllKids, our pediatric providers are trained to know and recognize these differences, ensuring your child receives the best health care available to them and their small bodies even in the most urgent of circumstances. Save time and money this summer by visiting AllKids Urgent Care, click here for more information.