Acute Diarrhea – What You Need to Know When Visiting Tel Aviv

Diarrhea is a common travel-related issue, and most cases are mild and resolve on their own. However, it’s important to know when symptoms may indicate something more serious that requires medical care. This guide is here to help you understand what to do, what to eat, and when to see a doctor in Tel Aviv.

What Is Acute Diarrhea?

Acute diarrhea is defined as passing loose or watery stools at least three times in 24 hours, lasting less than 14 days. It’s often caused by viruses, bacteria, or occasionally parasites. In most healthy adults, it's a self-limited condition.

What Causes It?

• Viruses (like norovirus) are the most common cause

• Bacteria (like Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, or certain strains of E. coli)

• Parasites, usually after travel or certain exposures

In Israel, bacterial or parasitic infections from food are not very common.

Common Triggers:

• Contaminated food or water

• Undercooked meat, unpasteurized dairy

• Contact with animals (petting zoos, reptiles)

• Recent antibiotics or hospitalization (risk of C. difficile)

When to See a Doctor:

You should see a doctor in Tel Aviv if you experience any of the following:

• High fever (above 38.5°C)

• Bloody stools

• Severe abdominal pain

• Dehydration signs (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness)

• Diarrhea lasting more than 1 week

• You're over 70, pregnant, or have chronic illness (heart disease, diabetes, IBD, immunosuppression)

• Recent use of antibiotics or hospital stay

How Is It Treated?

• Hydration is key. Drink water, broths, diluted juices, or rehydration solutions (rehydration drinks or isotonic beverages).

• Avoid dairy (except yogurt) for a few days due to possible temporary lactose intolerance.

• Light foods like rice, bananas, crackers, and potatoes are helpful.

• Avoid fatty or spicy foods.

 isotonic beverages

Medications:

rehydration tablets

• Loperamide (Imodium) may help reduce symptoms, but avoid it if you have bloody diarrhea or fever.

• Bismuth subsalicylate or Kaolin-based tablets (like Kalbeten) can help calm symptoms.

• Antibiotics are usually not needed but may be given if symptoms are severe or you're at higher risk.

• Probiotics are not routinely recommended.

Lab Tests and Imaging: Most people don’t need tests. Stool tests may be done if you have bloody diarrhea, high fever, or risk factors. Imaging is rarely needed unless there are severe complications.

Important for Travelers:

• In Israel, electronic prescriptions are only available for members of Israeli health funds (Kupot Holim).

• If you need medication, you must see a local doctor for a physical prescription.

• It helps to bring documentation of your regular medications.

• Not all medications available abroad exist in Israel, and a doctor may recommend a suitable alternative.

If you're unsure whether your symptoms require medical attention, our clinic in Tel Aviv is here to help you feel better, safely and quickly.