We are not medical practitioners. You should always consult a doctor for the right medical advice before travelling abroad or before taking any medications.

BANGKOK BELLY

Some travellers may experience the unfortunate “Bangkok Belly”, often a result of a sudden change in diet and climate.

Usually, it will clear up fairly quickly with the help of a little medication. A cheap and cheerful aid is to buy bottles of “Sponsor” or “M Sport” (the yellow coloured liquid is better than the milky one) at any minimart or supermarket, for about 10 baht. They are a type of electrolyte and should soon have you back to normal.

Don’t have ice, very cold drinks, or spicy food while suffering from ‘Bangkok Belly”. Drink (bottled) water that is not cold if you can.

If the problem persists, ask you hotel reception to recommend a doctor. See Also DEHYDRATION below.

BIRD FLU

Bird, or Avian, Flu has popped up a number of times in Thailand and other S.E. Asian countries, and has proven hard to stop or cure. While the chances of being infected a very small, you should be aware of the risks from Bird Flu.

DEHYDRATION

Dehydration is a common problem encountered by travellers not used to a very hot and very humid climate like Thailand’s.

Treated quickly, it does not have to be a problem, but if not treated, it can kill. Symptoms include lethargy, and sleepiness all the time.

Drink more (bottled) water than you think you need. Don’t drink too much alcohol, as that dehydrates you even more. You can also drink Sprite or 7-Up with salt, sounds horrible but actually tastes OK and does help. Other good drinks are lemon juice with some salt, or a bottle of “Sponsor” or “M Sport”, available in any minimart of supermarket. And drink more (bottled) water!!

DENGUE FEVER & MALARIA

Dengue Fever is a growing problem in Thailand and other S.E. Asian countries. It has affected people in Bangkok as well as in the countryside.

Malaria is a tiny risk in most of Thailand. Consult your doctor before travelling, but medication or shots may not be necessary.

DIABETES

Travellers with Diabetes should not worry too much. Diabetes is fairly common in Thailand, and in the case of any problem, all hospitals and most clinics will be able to give appropriate treatment quickly.

You are advised to bring enough medication and syringes for the duration of you trip, and to get a doctor’s letter confirming your condition and prescriptions, to ease any possible questions at Customs.

Food in Thailand can often contain higher levels of sugar than in some western countries.

DRINKING WATER

Tap water in Thailand in NOT potable. Drink only bottled water. Ice is OK in most cases; but avoid crushed ice. “Chunks” should be fine.

HOSPITALS & CLINICS

Private hospitals in Thailand offer a very high standard of care (see our list of hospitals). Public hospitals and clinics offer a lesser standard. Clinics should be fine for very minor problems, otherwise a visit to a hospital is recommended, and you’ll need to have good medical insurance to cover the bills.

Visiting a doctor at the hospital is the norm in Thailand, there is no need to visit a general practitioner first.

Many hospitals have international accreditations, have western trained doctors and English speaking staff. Thailand isalso now a major center for “medical tourism”.