Travelling to Bali is a dream for many, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich cuisine. However, many visitors find their holiday disrupted by a common travel illness known as Bali Belly. This unpleasant condition can cause stomach upset, diarrhoea, and dehydration, leaving you confined to your hotel room instead of exploring. At The Chemist Shop in Glinton, Peterborough, we provide expert travel health advice and products to help you stay protected so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

What Is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is a term used to describe traveller’s diarrhoea, a common illness caused by consuming contaminated food or water. It is most often due to bacteria such as E. coli, but viruses and parasites can also be responsible. Symptoms usually appear within a few hours to a couple of days after exposure and can range from mild discomfort to severe illness.

Common Symptoms of Bali Belly

The most common symptoms of Bali Belly include:

• ✔ Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
• ✔ Watery diarrhoea
• ✔ Nausea and vomiting
• ✔ Fever and chills
• ✔ Loss of appetite
• ✔ Dehydration

Most cases improve within a few days, but symptoms can sometimes last longer if not managed properly.

How to Prevent Bali Belly

While it’s not always possible to completely avoid Bali Belly, there are precautions you can take to significantly reduce your risk:

• ✔ Only drink bottled or boiled water – avoid tap water, even for brushing your teeth.
• ✔ Say no to ice unless you are sure it’s made from safe water.
• ✔ Eat freshly cooked, steaming-hot food rather than food that has been sitting out.
• ✔ Avoid raw seafood and salads that may have been washed in contaminated water.
• ✔ Peel fruit yourself instead of eating pre-cut fruit.
• ✔ Wash your hands regularly or use sanitiser, especially before meals.

These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your digestive system healthy during your trip.

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

If you do come down with Bali Belly, the most important thing is to stay hydrated. Diarrhoea and vomiting can cause your body to lose fluids quickly, increasing the risk of dehydration.

Self-Care Tips

• ✔ Drink plenty of safe fluids – bottled water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions.
• ✔ Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen dehydration.
• ✔ Eat bland foods such as rice, toast, or bananas until you feel better.
• ✔ Rest and allow your body time to recover.

Over-the-counter medicines can sometimes help manage symptoms. At The Chemist Shop, we can advise you on the best options to take with you before you travel.

When to Seek Medical Help

Most cases of Bali Belly clear up within a few days, but there are times when you should seek medical advice. Contact a healthcare professional if you experience:

• ✔ Persistent diarrhoea lasting more than 3–4 days
• ✔ High fever or severe abdominal pain
• ✔ Blood in your stools
• ✔ Signs of severe dehydration, such as dizziness, confusion, or reduced urination

In these situations, prompt treatment can help prevent complications and speed up recovery.

Travel Health Advice at The Chemist Shop

At The Chemist Shop in Glinton, Peterborough, we understand the importance of preparing for travel. We offer comprehensive travel health consultations, helping you to reduce the risk of illnesses like Bali Belly. Our services include:

• ✔ Advice on food and water safety abroad
• ✔ Recommendations for travel health kits, including oral rehydration salts and medication
• ✔ Travel vaccinations for destinations worldwide
• ✔ Personalised guidance based on your travel plans

With the right preparation, you can minimise the chances of illness and focus on enjoying your time in Bali or other destinations.

Book Your Travel Health Consultation Today

If you’re planning a trip to Bali or anywhere abroad, don’t let Bali Belly ruin your experience. Speak to our expert team at The Chemist Shop in Glinton for professional advice, travel vaccinations, and health essentials tailored to your trip.

Book Now to arrange your travel health consultation and travel with confidence, knowing you’re well prepared.