The most effective and safest way to treat traveller's diarrhoea is adequate hydration and plenty of rest. This is because most of the symptoms from such episodes are self-limiting and usually resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. The diarrhoea experienced by most people helps to flush away contaminants and offending agents and is actually beneficial to our body for a speedier recovery.
However, if the loose stool becomes too frequent and the amount is massive, there is a real risk of dehydration. This is especially so when the diarrhoea is coupled with vomiting and appetite loss. Under such circumstances, intravenous fluids at a clinic or hospital may be the only effective way to ensure adequate hydration.
In more severe cases, anti-diarrhoea medicine or antibiotics may also be prescribed by your doctor to fight the symptoms and underlying infection. Should your symptoms continue beyond 3-4 weeks, your doctor may request for further investigations to exclude other underlying causes for your diarrhoea.
