What's Montezuma's revenge?

Montezuma's Revenge is diarrhea that is usually experienced by people traveling south of the U.S. border, especially to Mexico and Central America – hence the dramatic name.

Why do they call Montezuma's revenge?

Etymology. Named for Montezuma or Moctezuma II (c. 1466 – 1520), the last Aztec ruler before the empire was conquered by the Spanish. The condition is seen as “retribution” for the slaughter and enslavement of the Aztec people by Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés on 13 August 1521.

How long can Montezuma's Revenge last?

Most people improve within 1 to 2 days without treatment and recover completely within a week. However, you can have multiple episodes of traveler's diarrhea during one trip.

What is Montezuma's curse?

Moctezuma's revenge is a colloquial term for travelers' diarrhea contracted in Mexico.

Is Montezuma's Revenge offensive?

Acceptable Ways to Phrase Montezuma's Revenge

The phrase specifically applies to spicy food, referring to vomiting or diarrhea. It can also refer to passing stool that leaves you with a burning sensation due to the spices in the food. However, the phrase may have a racist overtone since you refer to bad Mexican food.

How to Treat Montezuma's Revenge | Stomach Problems

What bacteria causes Montezuma's revenge?

The most common culprit is a bacteria called E. coli.

How long does it take to hit Montezuma's revenge?

Symptoms typically appear within six to 24 hours after a bacterial or viral infection. It may take one to three weeks for signs of an intestinal parasite infection to show up. This may explain traveler's diarrhea that occurs a week or more after returning home. Symptoms are usually mild.

Why does Mexican water make you sick?

Bacteria and the toxins that cause traveler's diarrhea occur in areas with contaminated water supplies, poor sewage systems, or inadequate food handling. People living in these areas often don't get sick because their bodies have developed some degree of immunity.

Why do I always get sick in Mexico?

A common cause of sickness while on vacation in Mexico is caused by dehydration. You should drink more water than you might usually drink to compensate for the heat and perspiration.

What did Montezuma look like?

What did Moctezuma look like? A Spanish soldier described him "of good height, slender… the natural shade and colour of an Indian… scanty black beard…his face somewhat long, but cheerful". A Spanish priest calls him "astute, discerning, prudent, learned and capable".

How contagious is Montezuma's revenge?

It is important to remember that this illness is very contagious and good hand washing and proper hygiene prevents the virus from spreading. In addition, it is recommended that people not prepare food for others until three days after symptoms have passed.

How do you fix Montezuma's revenge?

Lifestyle and home remedies

If you do get traveler's diarrhea, avoid caffeine, alcohol and dairy products, which may worsen symptoms or increase fluid loss. But keep drinking fluids. Drink canned fruit juices, weak tea, clear soup, decaffeinated soda or sports drinks to replace lost fluids and minerals.

What stops diarrhea fast?

BRAT diet

A diet known as BRAT may also quickly relieve diarrhea. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. This diet is effective due to the bland nature of these foods, and the fact that they're starchy, low-fiber foods. These foods have a binding effect in the digestive tract to make stools bulkier.

How do you prevent travelers diarrhea in Mexico?

Eat only foods that are cooked and served hot. Avoid food that has been sitting on a buffet. Eat raw fruits and vegetables only if you have washed them in clean water or peeled them. Only drink beverages from factory-sealed containers, and avoid ice because it may have been made from unclean water.

What should I avoid eating in Mexico?

Never eat food that has not been cooked thoroughly. Avoid raw seafood, undercooked eggs, and any meat that is not completely cooked. If you want to eat fish, order it cooked, or try ceviche, which is a “raw” fish dish that utilizes citric acid to kill bacteria (it's delicious!)

What can you not drink in Mexico?

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Mexico?

Residents in Mexico may brush their teeth with tap water, but they'll rinse and spit, careful not to swallow. As a tourist, you may be better off taking the precaution of using bottled water to brush your teeth, and do try to remember to keep your mouth shut when you shower.

Does boiling water in Mexico make it safe?

Yes. As long as you bring the water to a boil for at least one minute, it is perfectly safe to use tap water for making coffee and tea in Mexico. Boiling water kills any bacteria and viruses that may be present. The only problem is that some tap water has a funky taste.

What is the drinking age in Mexico?

There are several characteristics of the U.S.-Mexico border area that are important to consider when thinking about alcohol use by residents there: poverty, health problems, drug trafficking and its associated violence, and the increased availability of alcohol in Mexico, where the legal drinking age is 18.

Is drinking coffee in Mexico safe?

Coffee, hot tea, canned soda and juice, beer, wine and alcohol are all a safe bet.

Will Montezuma's Revenge go away on its own?

Fortunately, if you do happen to get Montezuma's revenge, it is not likely to cause any more than an unpleasant evening or two. Most people are able to overcome this issue on their own or with the help of some medication. It is not a problem that typically is serious but it is unpleasant.

Why do I get diarrhea when I go to Mexico?

Key Points. Traveler's diarrhea occurs within 10 days of travel to an area with poor public hygiene. It's the most common illness in travelers. It's caused by drinking water or eating foods that have bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Is Montezuma's Revenge Giardia?

Giardia, scientifically know as Giardia intestinallis, is a microscopic parasite that causes a diarrhea illness known as giardiasis. Some common names are Beaver Fever, Montezuma's Revenge, Forest Flu, Travelers D, or The Trots. It is a global disease that is associated with contaminated water.

What does Pepto-Bismol do?

About Pepto-Bismol

This medicine is used for heartburn and acid reflux, indigestion, diarrhoea and feeling sick (nausea). It works by protecting your stomach and the lower part of your food pipe from stomach acid. It is also a mild antacid, which helps reduce excess stomach acid and eases any discomfort.

Can Coke stop diarrhea?

The quick and popular remedy — usually in the form of cola, ginger ale or clear sodas — is said to help settle the stomach with its slight fizz and replenish fluids and glucose lost by vomiting and diarrhea.