What to do in the first few hours
- Start ORS immediately and keep sipping — replace every loose motion with a glass of ORS.
- Eat light, simple food (rice, toast, bananas, curd) when you feel able.
- Avoid alcohol, very oily food and caffeine until you recover.
- Rest — schedule a quieter day if you can.
Medicines that can help
| Medicine | Use it for | Avoid when |
|---|---|---|
| ORS | Preventing and treating dehydration | Never needs to be avoided |
| Antimotility tablet | Reducing frequent loose motions | Fever, blood in stool, or in young children |
| Antiemetic | Nausea and vomiting | Follow the dosage guide |
| Probiotic | Supporting gut recovery | — |
| Antibiotic | Only for moderate–severe cases | Take only on a doctor’s advice |
When to see a doctor urgently
Seek medical care if you notice
Blood or mucus in stool, fever above 38.5 °C, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration (very little urine, dizziness, dry mouth), symptoms lasting more than 3 days, or illness in a child, pregnant woman or older adult.
How to prevent it
- Drink sealed bottled water and avoid ice of unknown origin.
- Choose food that is freshly cooked and served hot.
- Peel fruit yourself; be careful with salads and raw seafood.
- Wash or sanitise hands before eating.
Frequently asked questions
How long does traveller’s diarrhoea last?
Most cases improve within 1–3 days with rest and ORS. If it lasts longer than 3 days or you have fever or blood in stool, see a doctor.
Should I take an antibiotic for loose motions abroad?
Not routinely. Antibiotics are only needed for moderate to severe cases and should be taken on a doctor’s advice — TravelMed kit owners can book a free teleconsultation.
What is the best thing to drink with loose motions?
Oral rehydration solution (ORS). It replaces the salts and fluids you lose and is the most important treatment.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chitarth Rajasekaran
Founder & Medical Director · MBBS, MS Ortho, DNB Ortho, MRCS (Edin), Fellow in FIJR, FISS
A practising surgeon and frequent traveller, Dr. Chitarth founded TravelMed after a family trip abroad was derailed by a minor illness.
Read his storySources
This article is general information for travellers and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Medicine-import rules change — always confirm with the destination’s official health authority or embassy.
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