Traveler’s diarrhea is diagnosed primarily based on clinical symptoms and travel history. A diagnosis requires at least 3 unformed stools in 24 hours, plus at least one of the following: abdominal cramps, fecal urgency, fever, nausea, or vomiting.[1][2] To be considered traveler’s diarrhea, the condition must occur while traveling or within 10 days of returning home.[1] In severe or unresolved cases, stool samples may be taken to identify the causative pathogen.[1]
How is traveler’s diarrhea diagnosed?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Traveler's diarrhea is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and travel history and requires at least 3 unformed stools in 24 hours along with symptoms like abdominal cramps or fever. In severe cases, stool samples may be analyzed to identify the pathogen.