Stomach bugs surging as doctors say certain travel essentials could save your trip

Stomach bugs can quickly turn a dream vacation into days spent in a hotel room, but doctors say packing a few key essentials can help keep your summer or fall trip on track.Gastrointestinal illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites commonly trigger nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).The agency says travelers' diarrhea, usually caused by bacteria, is the most common travel-related illness. WHY A BLOWN-OUT PLANE WINDOW NEARLY SUCKED A PASSENGER OUTSIDE AT 16K FEETIt affects an estimated 30% to 70% of travelers during a two-week trip, depending on the destination and season.While not every stomach bug can be prevented, doctors say packing a few essentials before you leave can help manage symptoms, prevent dehydration and make it easier to know when it's time to seek medical care.Stomach bugs can quickly derail a dream vacation, but doctors say packing a few key essentials can help keep your trip on track.(iStock)Before your next trip, the CDC recommends packing the following items:If illness does strike, staying hydrated should be the top priority.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERMost people recover from common stomach bugs within one to three days without treatment, though dehydration can become serious enough to require medical attention, Chad D.

Neilsen, director of Infection Prevention and Control at Nemours Children's Health in Florida, previously told Fox News Digital.While stomach bugs aren't always preventable, doctors say packing a few key items before your trip can help you manage symptoms, stay hydrated and recognize when it's time to see a doctor.(iStock)Doctors say smart food choices can also help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal illness while traveling.Bethany Doerfler, a senior clinical research dietitian at the Digestive Health Institute of Northwestern Medicine, recommends thoroughly cooking higher-risk vegetables, such as leafy greens and fres...