Quick Answer
Seek medical help for backcountry diarrhea if symptoms persist or worsen, if you experience severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C), or if you're unable to keep fluids down.
Recognizing the Need for Medical Attention
When dealing with backcountry diarrhea, it’s essential to be aware of the warning signs that indicate a more severe condition. These signs may include persistent or worsening diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or a fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C). If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the backcountry, this may involve calling for a rescue or waiting for a medical team to arrive.
Fluid Replacement and Worsening Symptoms
If you’re unable to keep fluids down, it’s essential to seek medical help. Dehydration can set in quickly, especially in a hot environment. Aim to replace lost fluids with an oral rehydration solution, such as Pedialyte or a homemade mixture of water, salt, and sugar. The World Health Organization recommends a solution of 2.6 grams of sodium chloride and 13.5 grams of glucose per liter of water. If you’re unable to keep this solution down, it may be necessary to seek medical attention and receive IV fluids.
Identifying and Addressing Underlying Causes
In some cases, backcountry diarrhea may be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a bacterial or parasitic infection. If you experience persistent or severe diarrhea, it’s essential to seek medical attention to rule out these conditions. Your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics or anti-parasitic medication to treat the underlying cause of your diarrhea. In the backcountry, it’s also crucial to practice good hygiene and food safety to prevent the spread of illness. This includes washing your hands frequently, cooking food thoroughly, and storing food and water properly.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.