Healthcare Providers in Puerto Escondido

Travelers' diarrhea affects 30-70% of tourists visiting developing regions, typically caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria (most commonly E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, or Shigella), parasites (Giardia, Cryptosporidium), or viruses (norovirus, rotavirus). Symptoms usually begin 12-72 hours after exposure and include frequent loose stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever or vomiting. Prompt treatment is important to prevent dehydration, which can occur rapidly in hot climates and cause serious complications. Medical evaluation is recommended for severe symptoms (high fever, bloody diarrhea), signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dizziness, extreme thirst), or symptoms persisting beyond 3-5 days. Treatment focuses on rehydration with oral rehydration solutions or, in severe cases, IV fluids. Antibiotics (commonly azithromycin or ciprofloxacin) can shorten illness duration for bacterial causes, while anti-motility agents like loperamide provide symptomatic relief. Mexican physicians familiar with local pathogens can provide targeted treatment, helping travelers recover quickly and resume activities.