Health and Medication

Diarrhea is a concern for travelers in China. It can be caused by eating contaminated fruits and vegetables or drinking contaminated water. It is important that any fruit eaten raw are cleaned very well and peeled. Even grapes need to be peeled. Contaminated water is a major cause of diarrhea, so stay away from ice, uncooked food, and unpasteurized milk and milk products. It is recommended that you drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least 20 minutes. Bottled water is widely available throughout China, even in the countryside. As a precaution, it is recommended you bring water purification tablets, just in case you cannot find bottled water in some of the more remote areas of China. Mild cases of diarrhea may respond to Imodium (known generically as loperamide) or Pepto-Bismol (not as strong), both of which can be purchased over the counter. Do NOT buy prescription drugs in China, as its quality control is unreliable. Ask your doctor for an anti-diarrheal prescription to take with you. Drink plenty of purified water or chamomile tea is a good folk remedy. In severe cases, rehydrate yourself with a salt-sugar solution (1/2 teaspoon salt and 4 tablespoons sugar per quart of water).

Quick Questions

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