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Traveler's Diarrhea Treatment

Self-Care at Home

  • Drink 2-3 quarts of fluid per day. In the first 24 hours the best fluids to drink are bottled fruit juices and beverages, caffeine-free soft drinks, hot tea, and broth.
  • During the next 24 hours, eat bland foods such as rice, soup, bread, crackers, eggs, and cereals. Advance to regular foods after 2-3 days.
  • With more severe cases, over-the-counter medications may help reduce symptoms and shorten the time they last.

    • Antimotility agents, such as loperamide ( Imodium), give the stools more consistency and provide some relief from your symptoms.

    • Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) is also moderately effective. Use according to package directions or upon direction of your doctor.

more information from eMedicineHealth

WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth

Reviewed by Cynthia Dennison Haines, MD on May 24, 2006
© 2003-2006 WebMD, Inc. All rights reserved.

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