The Hour

It’s the ultimate nightmare holiday scenario. You develop a stomach problem half-way through and end up spending half your holiday sightseeing in the hotel bathroom.

Although it is impossible to truly prevent or instantly cure an upset stomach, there are some precautions you can take to avoid becoming a casualty. Dr Debbie Wake spoke to The Hour about some of the steps you can take whilst on holiday.

Dr Debbie said: “There are many reasons why people get tummy troubles on holiday. It can be due to a change in temperature, a change in cuisine or through simple over indulgence. If this is the cause things will usually settle down within 24 hours, and you’ll have learnt your lesson

“However getting a serious tummy upset can be a disaster.”

One of the main causes for holiday sickness and diarrhoea is unsafe tap water. You should find out whether the water is safe to drink at your resort and stick to bottled drinks if it is not. And watch out for ice….

Use bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks. Raw and undercooked meat, food from a buffet and street vendors are also high risk in foreign countries.

Should symptoms persist beyond the normal 24-hour time-frame don’t be afraid to go to a hospital or ask your holiday rep for information on a local GP.

Dr Debbie added: “If you do develop diarrhoea it’s important to remain hydrated and make sure you wash your hands regularly.

“If symptoms persist beyond 72 hours, if there is a high fever or If the sufferer becomes confused its important to seek medical help.”

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