Can food poisoning cause traveller's diarrhoea?

Traveller's diarrhoea may follow bacteria, viruses or parasites in food, drinks, ice or unwashed hands. Symptoms can include loose stools, cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever. The illness may start during a trip or soon after exposure. Local food and water habits, changes in routine and reduced access to familiar hygiene measures can increase exposure, but the source is not always identifiable. Most uncomplicated episodes settle with supportive care, while some infections need targeted treatment.

Take frequent small sips of safe water or oral rehydration solution, especially after each loose stool or vomit. Continue light foods when able, and avoid alcohol until you recover. Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before handling food. Loperamide may be unsuitable with fever or bloody stool, and antibiotics should be discussed with a clinician rather than taken from leftover supplies. Use sealed, treated or boiled water for drinking and tooth brushing while symptoms continue.

Get urgent medical help for severe dehydration, fainting, confusion, inability to keep fluids down, blood or black stool, severe abdominal pain or breathing difficulty. Seek advice for persistent diarrhoea, high fever, pregnancy, older age, significant medical conditions or a weakened immune system. Medical review is also sensible after recent antibiotic use or if symptoms began after returning home.

Ask whether you need testing, oral rehydration guidance or prescription treatment. Tell the clinician where you travelled, when symptoms began, what you ate or drank, whether there is fever or blood, and which medicines you have already used.