Travellers' Diarrhoea: UK Online Doctor Treatment & Prevention
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Travellers' diarrhoea affects 20–60% of travellers depending on destination.
- Most cases are bacterial (E. coli) and self-limiting in 3–5 days.
- Hydration is the cornerstone of treatment.
- Standby antibiotics (azithromycin) can shorten severe attacks.
- An online GP can prescribe a 'just-in-case' pack before travel.
Prevention
- 'Boil it, peel it, cook it or forget it.'
- Bottled or treated water; avoid ice.
- Avoid salads washed in tap water.
- Wash hands or use alcohol gel before eating.
Self-treatment
- Oral rehydration salts (ORS) — sip frequently.
- Continue eating bland foods if tolerated.
- Loperamide for control of symptoms — avoid if bloody diarrhoea or high fever.
- Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) helps mild cases.
When antibiotics help
- Moderate-severe diarrhoea (>4 loose stools/day with fever or pain).
- Bloody stools.
- Standby azithromycin 500mg daily 1–3 days is first choice (especially Asia).
- Ciprofloxacin alternative (rising resistance).
Get a travel prescription
An online UK GP can issue a standby antibiotic pack with clear instructions on when to use it.
Red flags — when to seek urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:
- Bloody diarrhoea + high fever
- Persistent severe pain
- Signs of dehydration unable to keep fluids down
- Symptoms persisting >7 days
- Returning ill with fever from malaria areas
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about travellers' diarrhoea.
How an online doctor can help
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This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
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