Treatment of travelers' diarrhea: fluid and dietary management

Travelers' diarrhea is associated with a mild or moderately severe loss of fluid and electrolytes. Severe fluid deficits are encountered only rarely. Mortality associated with fluid deficits is very rare; significant morbidity occurs only in older adults or in patients with chronic intestinal diseases or other chronic diseases (cardiac, pulmonary, or renal). Treatment of fluid and electrolyte deficits may be effectively achieved by rehydration with oral rehydration solution (World Health Organization) or with a commercial solution of similar composition. Dietary recommendations should emphasize the necessity of resuming a normal diet once a reduction in symptoms makes this feasible. Eating small portions frequently and omitting caffeine and lactose-containing food and drink may be advantageous.