Did you just return from a trip? Do you have “Montezuma’s revenge”, also known as Travelers’ Diarrhea (TD)? Do you have an upper respiratory infection? Do you have a skin rash? Do you have a fever? Diarrhea, especially caused by parasites, can cause symptoms lasting weeks or months. In some cases, travelers develop what is now called post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) or small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which is marked by continued gastrointestinal symptoms after an intestinal infection has cleared. The New York Center for Travel and Tropical Medicine can offer treatment for diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, fever, upset stomach and diarrhea. We specialize in treating people dealing with post travel illness such as upper respiratory infections, skin rash and fevers.
Post Travel Illness Q & A
What is a post-travel illness visit?
Travel to new and exotic destinations – especially those in developing countries or subtropical or tropical climates – can result in exposures to potentially serious infections and diseases. A post-travel illness visit provides a skilled evaluation of your symptoms and overall health to determine if an infection is present and, if so, to decide on the best course of treatment for optimal results. Travel Health Services is a leading provider of post-travel illness evaluations for men, women, and children in New York City and throughout the metropolitan region and a part of the New York Center for Travel and Tropical Medicine.
What symptoms should I be looking out for when I return from travel to an area where specific diseases are prevalent?
Diarrhea is one of the most common symptoms to occur following a travel-related infection. Any bout of diarrhea you experience following travel should be promptly reported. Nausea, vomiting, and fever may also occur. Travel-related gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting may be due to viral, bacterial or parasitic infections, each of which requires a specific approach for treatment or cure. Infections can be spread by food, water, insects or contact with other infected humans or with infected animals. Respiratory infections are also common, and symptoms typically include a wet or dry cough sometimes accompanied by fever or other symptoms. Skin diseases including rashes and boils are also relatively common, depending on your destination.
How can I tell if I need to see a doctor for a post-travel illness evaluation?
Travel-related illnesses can require protracted or complex treatment, and without prompt attention, they can soon become very serious – even life-threatening. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above or any other unusual symptoms of illness, schedule an evaluation right away to ensure you get the best treatment as soon as possible.