Before you go to Bali, there’s something you need to be aware of, Bali Belly. It’s that unpleasant surprise no one talks about until it’s too late. Imagine being stuck in your hotel room with stomach cramps and constant trips to the bathroom instead of exploring the island. Not fun, right? In this article, I’ll break down what Bali Belly is, how you can spot it, and, most importantly, how to avoid it, so you can enjoy your trip without any nasty interruptions.
What is Bali Belly?
Traveller’s diarrhoea, another name for Bali Belly, arises from contaminated food and water. It’s more intense than just a regular upset stomach. It often coming with stronger symptoms like watery stools, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes abdominal pain.
What makes Bali Belly tricky is how suddenly it can hit you. You might be feeling totally fine during your stay in Bali, then out of nowhere, the symptoms can knock you off your feet. That’s why it’s important to know how to protect yourself from Bali Belly and what to do if you get it.
Symptoms and Signs
Feeling a little under the weather in Bali? It could be Bali Belly! Check out these common symptoms to see if that’s what’s going on.
- Diarrhea: Watery stools is often one of the first signs of Bali Belly. It can happen multiple times a day.
- Stomach cramps: Intense stomach cramps, usually with a general feeling of discomfort in your belly.
- Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous and even throwing up is also common.
- Mild fever: A slight to moderate fever might also indicate Bali Belly.
- Fatigue and loss of appetite: Bali Belly often comes with tiredness and not feeling like eating.
What Causes Bali Belly
There are various reasons why you might get Bali Belly, from poor hygiene to certain germs found in water and food. Consuming contaminated food is a primary cause of Bali Belly, often stemming from poor sanitation and hygiene practices. Here are some of the main causes:
- Contaminated water: Drinking unfiltered or untreated water, especially from taps or unsafe sources, is often a big culprit.
- Poor hygiene: Sometimes, food that isn’t prepared properly in restaurants or at street stalls can become contaminated.
- Bad sanitary conditions: Dirty conditions in restaurants or where you’re staying can also help spread bacteria.
Tip: To avoid Bali Belly, it’s crucial to pay attention to the quality of the water and food you consume.
Is Bali Belly Contagious?
Bali Belly is really unpleasant, but what about the risk of spreading it to others? The good news is that Bali Belly usually isn’t contagious.
Most of the time, the symptoms are caused by poor hygiene or eating contaminated food or water. It’s basically a type of food poisoning or stomach upset from bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
This means you generally don’t have to worry about passing it on to other travelers or locals. However, it’s still important to practice good hygiene to prevent spreading germs. Make sure to wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
How long does Bali Belly last?
How long it sticks around can vary depending on a few things. Usually, the symptoms clear up within a few days to a week. Most people start feeling better gradually once they take the right steps to treat it and recover. Staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and eating easy-to-digest foods can really help speed up the recovery!
Note: If you’re dealing with ongoing diarrhea, severe stomach pain, or a high fever, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Can You Get Bali Belly More Than Once?
Yes, you can get Bali Belly more than once. Just because you’ve experienced it before doesn’t mean you’re immune. If you travel to Bali again or any other developing countries and consume contaminated food or water, you might find yourself dealing with the same unpleasant symptoms.
The key to avoiding a repeat episode is to be vigilant about hygiene and mindful of what you eat and drink. Always opt for bottled water, avoid eating contaminated food, and steer clear of places with questionable sanitary conditions. By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of getting Bali Belly again and enjoy your travels without interruption.
How to Cure Bali Belly
Stay Hydrated
The key to treat Bali belly is to drink plenty of fluids! Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, so you need to stay on top of your water intake. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte drinks are your best friends. For a more natural option, try coconut water. It’s full of electrolytes and super hydrating. You can grab a fresh coconut from warungs, restaurants, or traditional markets all over Bali.
Rest Up and Recharge
One of the most important things you can do to recover from Bali belly is to rest. Your body is working overtime to fight off the infection, so give it the break it needs. Stay in bed, watch some movies, and let your body recharge. The more you rest, the quicker you’ll get back on your feet. Pushing yourself too soon can make things worse, so don’t rush it. Take the day (or two) to just relax and heal.
Try Activated Charcoal for Quick Relief
Activated charcoal is a natural way to help your body get rid of toxins. It works by binding to the bad stuff in your stomach and moving it out of your system. In Bali, you’ll find Norit, a popular type of activated charcoal, at most convenience stores like Circle K and Alfamart. Pharmacies and supermarkets also carry it. It’s easy to take and can help calm your stomach faster. Just follow the instructions on the packaging, and you should start feeling better soon.Replenish Lost Salts
To replace lost salts and minerals, oral rehydration solutions like Electrolade, Dioralyte, and Rehidrat are effective, especially for kids and the elderly. For healthy adults, salty soups and juices packed with sugar can also do the trick.
Consider an IV Drip
If your symptoms are more severe, like persistent diarrhea or a high fever, an IV drip can make a huge difference. The standard drip includes saline solution, medicine for nausea and diarrhea, and a vitamin B complex. You can even add extra vitamin C for a boost! If things aren’t improving, be sure to seek medical advice.
Use Delivery Services
If you’re too unwell to head out, don’t worry, you can order Norit, Oralit, and even fresh coconuts (kelapa) through Go-Jek or Grab. There’s also Saline Bali, which offers home service IV drips, sending a nurse straight to your door.
Safe Food and Drink Options
When traveling to Bali or other developing countries, being cautious about what you consume is crucial to avoid the dreaded Bali Belly. Here are some safe food and drink options to keep in mind:
- Stick to bottled or filtered water: Always drink bottled water and check the seal to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with. Avoid drinking tap water to prevent any risk of contamination.
- Eat hot food: Hot food is generally safer as the heat kills bacteria and other pathogens. Opt for freshly cooked meals and avoid cold foods like salads or sandwiches that might harbor germs.
- Avoid raw foods: Raw foods, including vegetables and fruits, can be contaminated. Choose cooked or peeled options to minimize the risk.
- Choose reputable restaurants: Dine at reputable establishments known for their food safety standards. Street stalls and vendors might not follow proper food handling procedures, so it’s best to avoid them.
- Avoid spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate your digestive system and exacerbate symptoms of Bali Belly. Stick to mild or bland options to keep your stomach settled.
- Avoid dairy foods: Dairy products like milk and cheese can be contaminated. Opt for alternatives like coconut milk or yogurt to stay safe.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting Bali Belly and enjoy a healthy, worry-free trip to Bali or any other developing country. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in keeping your digestive system happy and your travels enjoyable.
How to Prevent Bali Belly
Now that we’ve covered the symptoms, causes, and treatment of Bali Belly, it’s time to learn how to avoid this annoying illness in the first place. There are several tried-and-true tips that can help you stay healthy during your Bali trip. Here are some tips on what you can safely enjoy during your trip:
- Stick to Bottled Water: Tap water is a no-go in Bali, so use bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, and even rinsing your toothbrush. Be cautious with ice too — only use it if you’re sure it’s from purified water, like in good restaurants or hotels.
- Choose Your Food Wisely: Skip the street food and stick to restaurants with good reviews. Make sure your meals are fully cooked, and be careful with raw fruits and veggies unless you’re sure they’ve been washed with clean water.
- Wash Your Hands: Hand hygiene is key! Always wash your hands before eating, or use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t around.
- Avoid Risky Foods: Be cautious of raw salads, uncooked meats, and buffet foods that have been sitting out. It’s better to play it safe and avoid anything that could be contaminated.
- Boost Your Gut Health: Consider taking probiotics before and during your trip to help protect your stomach. Another option is Travelan, which can help prevent diarrhea by fighting off bad bacteria before they cause trouble.
Bottom line
Bali is a magical place, but it does have its challenges. While Bali Belly is definitely unpleasant, it shouldn’t stop you from exploring and enjoying this beautiful island.
By taking some basic precautions and being mindful about what you eat and drink, you can significantly reduce the risk and fully enjoy your trip. So, book your Bali visa today and get ready for some unforgettable memories!