As the holiday season approaches, one of the most attractive destinations is the Iberian Peninsula. This is due to multiple reasons: stunning landscapes, a pleasant climate, a variety of activities, and, of course, its rich culinary culture. Think of its jamón serrano, tortilla de patatas, and delightful tapas! And let’s not forget that the Mediterranean diet is one of the most celebrated worldwide.
However, how do new foods affect visitors? Traveling to a new country brings the excitement of experiencing different cultures and tasting new flavours, but it may also expose your body to unfamiliar bacteria and viruses.
One of the primary concerns while on holiday is the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses. Below, we provide important information about this topic.
Common gastrointestinal Illnesses when vacationing in Spain
Did you know that tourists have a high chance of experiencing stomach problems? It’s relatively common. The body goes through many changes, which can impact the digestive system in varying degrees, from mild discomfort to severe illness.
It’s true! When traveling, you’re more likely to encounter stomach issues than heart problems. Despite being underestimated, gastrointestinal conditions can significantly interfere with your enjoyment of the trip. Here are some of the most frequent ailments, how to recognize them, mitigate their risks, and effective solutions to prevent a rough time before your journey.
Travel diarrhea
One of the most common ailments, also known as “tourist diarrhea” or “gastroenteritis.” It occurs when you are in a new place, and the food or water may be contaminated in some way.
What are some symptoms?
- Loose stools and stomach cramps.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting and fever (in some cases).
How can you reduce the risks of travel diarrhea while on holiday?
- Be cautious about what you eat and drink during your trip.
- Stay hydrated with safe liquids, such as bottled water or electrolyte-rich drinks like oral rehydration solutions.
- If you don’t seem to improve quickly, consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.
Viral gastroenteritis
This illness can definitely spoil your holiday. Viral gastroenteritis can be caused by various types of viruses that can infect individuals of all ages, although some primarily affect infants and young children.
In contrast to other stomach illnesses, it spreads from person to person through contact with the faeces or vomit of an infected person. Therefore, proper hand hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of these viruses. It can also be caused by bacteria, parasites, and chemicals.
In Spain, it is common for gastroenteritis to spread during holiday seasons, so we must remain vigilant for symptoms and take necessary measures to prevent its transmission.
What are the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis?
The most common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea.
- Abdominal pain or cramps.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Fever in some cases.
How can you differentiate viral gastroenteritis from other illnesses?
Viral gastroenteritis can present symptoms similar to other health issues, so paying attention to certain signs that may indicate a more serious problem is crucial.
In adults, symptoms such as changes in mental state, diarrhoea lasting more than two days, high fever, frequent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or blood in stools should prompt immediate medical consultation. Additionally, older adults, pregnant women, the immunocompromised, or those with other medical conditions should seek medical help at any sign of gastroenteritis.
In infants and children, diarrhoea can be particularly dangerous and lead to severe dehydration in a short time. Thus, if a child shows signs of irritability, prolonged diarrhoea, high fever, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, parents should consult a doctor immediately.
How can we reduce the risks of viral gastroenteritis during our holiday?
- Stick to a light diet and rest your stomach.
- Rehydrate with electrolyte solutions.
- Seek medical attention for diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.
Gastrointestinal Illnesses and dehydration
In most cases, illnesses such as travel diarrhoea or viral gastroenteritis can severely affect the body, leading to dehydration. Anyone showing signs or symptoms of dehydration should consult a doctor immediately, as severe cases may require hospital treatment.
What are the symptoms of dehydration?
- Extreme thirst.
- Urinating less than usual.
- Feeling fatigued.
- Dizziness or fainting.
How can you prevent dehydration from gastrointestinal illnesses?
- Drink enough water every day.
- Avoid sugary and caffeinated beverages.
- Drink more fluids when it’s hot, especially if engaging in outdoor activities.
What should I do if I experience stomach issues during my holiday in Spain?
Traveling exposes you to new viruses and bacteria. While precautions can often be taken to avoid the aforementioned illnesses, what should you do if they aren’t enough?
Wosler understands that it’s a common risk for tourists to suffer from stomach issues, potentially losing valuable time seeking help. That’s why we offer an excellent digital medical service for visitors, providing specialized medical care when needed, without the hassle of bureaucratic or language barriers.
Our service is tailored to ensure you don’t waste time getting treated if you’re experiencing stomach discomfort. We understand that these issues are frequent but also easily identifiable and treatable by qualified professionals.
Don’t let a health issue ruin your trip! If you require medical attention during your stay in Spain, consider Wosler.
