Bali belly is actually a term used to describe food poisoning characterized by diarrhea or vomiting. This condition is mostly experienced by tourists or travelers. In addition, it can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, loss of appetite, fever, dizziness, sweating, lethargy, and stomach cramps. 

Causes

Bali belly can be caused by viruses or bacteria in contaminated food or water. The most common viruses found are Rotavirus and Norovirus, while the bacteria often detected are E.coli, Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter. In addition, bali belly may also be caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. 

The bacteria will happily grow in tropical and humid regions, one of which is Indonesia. In addition, this microorganism also likes to live in unsanitary areas. Keep in mind that the last food eaten does not necessarily mean it was the culprit. This is because symptoms can appear within 1 hour to 48 hours later, or even weeks later.

Food poisoning is caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites.

Treatment

Generally, diarrhea caused by viruses will resolve on its own, while antibiotics can be used to treat diarrhea caused by bacteria. However, consumption should not be excessive as it may cause the bacteria to become resistant to the drugs. The main step to overcome diarrhea is to replace lost body fluids. 

In addition, people with acute diarrhea need to replace electrolyte loss from their body as well. This can be done by buying ORS powder sold over the counter at pharmacies, buying electrolyte drink products, or making your own by mixing salt and sugar with water. Other symptoms can be managed by taking anti-nausea, pain-relieving, or fever-reducing medications.

Prevention

The elderly and someone with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of developing Bali belly. For anyone who wants to travel to other regions, especially tropical climates like Indonesia, especially Bali, there are several strategies that can be done to prevent Bali belly. What are they? Here are the tips!

1. Pay attention to the drinking water consumed. To maintain safety, it is recommended to buy bottled drinking water (AMDK). If not, then make sure to order water that has been boiled to the boiling point temperature or avoid drinks with ice because there is a risk that ice cubes are made from unsterilized water.
2. Maintain personal hygiene. Routinely wash your hands with soap in running water or antiseptic liquid, either before or after eating. urinating, or defecating.
3. Pay attention to the food consumed. As much as possible to choose fresh or freshly cooked food, try to avoid fast food and food that is not fully cooked.
4. Make sure cutlery is clean. Cutlery must be clean and dry before use. Provide food grade tissue or hand sanitizer. 
5. Have medicines ready. If you have a history of digestive problems, consult a doctor before traveling or provide personal medication.

Make sure to keep yourself and the cutlery you use clean.

Well, so bali belly is a term for food poisoning due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites that occurs when a tourist in Bali consumes contaminated food or water. The condition can be treated by replacing fluids and electrolytes lost from the body, as well as taking certain medications to relieve other symptoms. Even though we're Indonesians, have you ever experienced it?

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