What to Expect from a Travel Health Consultation for Traveller's Diarrhoea

The clinician will ask when symptoms began, how often you pass loose stools, whether vomiting or fever is present, and what you have eaten or drunk. Tell them where you travelled, when you returned, and whether anyone else became unwell. They may assess signs of dehydration such as thirst, dry mouth, dizziness or reduced urination. The consultation also considers pregnancy, long-term illness, immune problems and current medicines because these can change advice.

Bring your travel dates, destination details and a list of medicines or supplements. Sip safe fluids regularly; oral rehydration solution may replace water and salts lost through diarrhoea. Eat small, simple meals when able and wash hands carefully. Do not start leftover antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicine without advice, particularly if you have fever or blood in the stool. Follow the clinician's instructions about testing, treatment and returning to work or travel.

Seek urgent medical help for severe weakness, fainting, confusion, inability to keep fluids down, very little urine, blood or black stool, severe abdominal pain, or a high fever. Contact a clinician promptly if diarrhoea continues after travel, worsens, or affects a child, older adult, pregnant person or someone with a weakened immune system.

Ask whether you need a stool test, which fluids and foods are suitable, and which warning signs should change your plan. You can also ask when it is safe to travel again and how to reduce the risk on future trips.