Hello, thestrawberryfields,
What you have is called Traveler's Diarrhea.
The most common reason is ingestion of food or
drink contaminated with certain bacteria. Almost
80% of this is due to food. There are bacteria called
E.Coli and the toxigenic strains of these cause the
problem. There are at least six different types that
can cause
gastroenteritis, nausea,vomiting,diarrhea,fever,
some times bloody diarrhea.
Other bugs that can also cause this include, Salmonella,
Shigella, Campylobacter,Giardia,Norwalk virus, also
cryptosporidium etc.
If the infection is mild, it will get better in 2-3 days.
If the symptoms are really bad, you will need treatment
with antibiotics. You need to keep your hydration good.
Electrolyte containing drinks like gatorade etc. will be good.
As for antibiotics,
ciproflaxin class of drugs are good.
You do need a prescription from your doctor.
Bismuth subsalicylate (
Pepto-Bismol) helps the stomach
and diarrhea. Stool may turn black ! Lomotil, Imodium are
O.K. if the diarrhea is not very severe or bloody.
Avoid alcohol,excess caffeine.
Hope this helps you. As always, if the symptoms get worse,
please see your doctor or go the nearest medical facility.
Wish you well.