Traveler's Diarrhea Treatment
Traveler's Diarrhea Treatment in Spain and Portugal from UrgentDoc: a licensed, English-speaking doctor by video, usually within minutes, 24/7. Consultations from €39, with any prescription sent to your pharmacy.
About Traveler's Diarrhea
Traveler's diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness, affecting up to 50% of international travelers. It's usually caused by consuming contaminated food or water. While often self-limiting, treatment can significantly reduce symptom duration and severity, helping you get back to enjoying your trip.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden onset of loose, watery stools
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever (sometimes)
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Malaise and fatigue
- Dehydration symptoms
Common Causes
- Bacteria (E. coli, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella)
- Viruses (norovirus, rotavirus)
- Parasites (Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
- Contaminated water
- Contaminated food (raw vegetables, undercooked meat)
- Street food with poor hygiene
- Ice made from contaminated water
- Change in gut bacteria from new environment
Treatment Options
- Antibiotic treatment (azithromycin, ciprofloxacin)
- Anti-diarrheal medications (loperamide)
- Oral rehydration solutions
- Anti-nausea medications
- Bismuth subsalicylate recommendations
- Dietary guidance during recovery
- Hydration protocols
- Prevention advice for remainder of trip
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many cases of traveler's diarrhea can be treated online, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- •Diarrhea persists more than 48 hours
- •Blood in stool
- •Fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F)
- •Severe abdominal pain
- •Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dark urine)
- •Unable to keep fluids down
- •Symptoms not improving with basic treatment
Select Your Location
Choose your city for location-specific information about traveler's diarrhea treatment
Spain
How It Works
Get treated for traveler's diarrhea in three simple steps
Book Online
Choose a convenient time and book your video consultation in minutes.
See a Doctor
Connect with an English-speaking doctor who will assess your condition.
Get Treatment
Receive your prescription at your local pharmacy or treatment plan.
Traveler's Diarrhea Treatment FAQs
Can I get antibiotics for traveler's diarrhea online?
Yes, our doctors can prescribe antibiotics like azithromycin that are effective against traveler's diarrhea. Treatment can reduce symptoms from days to hours.
How quickly do antibiotics work for traveler's diarrhea?
Most people see significant improvement within 24 hours of starting antibiotics. Many feel much better within just a few hours.
Should I take Imodium for traveler's diarrhea?
Anti-diarrheal medications can help manage symptoms but should be used with antibiotics for bacterial causes. Our doctors will advise on the best combination for your situation.
Can I prevent traveler's diarrhea?
Yes, through food and water precautions. Our doctors can provide tips on safe eating and drinking while traveling, and discuss prophylactic options if appropriate.
Check Medicine Names in Spain
Brand names differ between countries, and these pages show each medicine's Spanish names and whether it needs a prescription in Spain.