| Montezuma's Revenge (medicine) |
Article Index for Montezuma's Revenge |
Shopping Revenge |
Website Links For Revenge |
Information AboutMontezuma's Revenge (medicine) |
|
While many Gastrointestinal illnesses fall under the umbrella term "Montezuma's Revenge", approximately 80% of cases are caused by bacterial infection. The most common organisms are enterotoxigenic '' Escherichia Coli '', ''Shigella'' and ''Campylobacter jejuni''. It is likely that residents have developed a tolerance to these organisms, but they cause sickness in vistors who consume the same food or liquids. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may include:
It is estimated that 40% of foreign traveller Vacation s in Mexico are disrupted by the infection. Most cases are mild and resolve themselves in a few days with no treatment. Severe or extended cases, however, may result in extensive fluid loss and/or dangerous Electrolytic Imbalance which pose a severe medical risk and may prove fatal if mismanaged. The oversight of a medical professional is advised. Mild cases are best treated by drinking liquids to replace fluid loss, combined with a light diet. It is important to include sources of electrolytes in the diet as drinking water alone in large amounts incurs the risk of Hyponatremia which can be quite dangerous. Treatment of traveler's diarrhea includes antibiotics and antidiarrheal medications. A typical regimen would include a loading dose of loperamide (Immodium) and a fluoroquinolone antibiotic such as ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin. Over The Counter anti-diarheal medications do not cure the underlying illness but may provide temporary relief allowing the traveler to enjoy brief sight-seeing episodes or endure a plane trip home. To avoid Montezuma's revenge travellers are recommended to avoid any food or drinks that can harbor bacteria cultures. Dry, processed, or cooked foods are safe, as long as they have not been handled or rinsed with local water. Bottled beverages are safe if they come from a major manufacturer, although Ice Cube s added to the drink make it unsafe. Fruit drinks pose a risk if they are prepared with unfiltered water or by fresh squeezing. The traveler should also refrain from ingesting any water while showering or brushing their teeth. If the traveler has a significant underlying disease, antibiotic prophylaxis may be in order while in country. Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole are effective. Not all water supplies in Mexico are contaminated and many hotels have water purification systems that eliminate risk. Certain resort destinations also have large scale water purification systems which provide safe water city-wide. The best advice is to ask other experienced foreign travellers or to exercise caution when in doubt. Roadside and popular food stalls, as well as the famous " Mercado De Las Comidas ", a tourist spot at Plaza Garibaldi , should be specifically avoided. SEE ALSO |
|
|