TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What Is Bali Belly?
2. Parasites That Can Cause Bali Belly
3. Symptoms of a Parasite-Related Bali Belly
4. How to Treat Parasite-Related Bali Belly
5. When to Seek Medical Help
6. Prevention Tips

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Traveling to Bali is an unforgettable experience, with stunning beaches, a rich culture, and incredible food. But some travelers face an unwelcome surprise: Bali belly. 

While most cases are caused by bacteria or viruses, some are linked to parasites, which can make the condition more severe and longer-lasting. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the parasite-related version of Bali belly, how to spot it, and what to do if you get it.

What Is Bali Belly?

Bali belly is a local term for traveler’s diarrhea, a digestive upset that can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. 

The most common causes are bacteria like E. coli, viruses such as norovirus, and, in some cases, parasites.

Parasites That Can Cause Bali Belly

The most common parasites that may cause Bali belly include:

• Giardia lamblia: Causes giardiasis, leading to prolonged diarrhea, bloating, and foul-smelling stools.
• Entamoeba histolytica: Causes amoebiasis, which can lead to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.
• Cryptosporidium: Can cause watery diarrhea that lasts for weeks.

These parasites are often spread through contaminated food, untreated water, ice, or by touching surfaces with poor hygiene.

Symptoms of a Parasite-Related Bali Belly

While bacterial Bali belly may last only 1–5 days, parasite infections can cause symptoms that last a week or more if untreated. 

Signs to watch for include:

• Persistent diarrhea (lasting more than 5–7 days)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Bloating and excessive gas
• Greasy, foul-smelling stools
• Stomach cramps
• Fever (in some cases)

How to Treat Parasite-Related Bali Belly

If you suspect a parasite infection, it’s important to see a doctor. Treatment usually involves:

• Prescription antiparasitic medication, such as metronidazole or tinidazole for giardiasis and amoebiasis.
• Hydration therapy. Drinking water, oral rehydration salts (ORS), or electrolyte solutions.
• Rest and a bland diet, sticking to foods like bananas, rice, and toast.

Self-medicating without a proper diagnosis is not recommended, as the wrong treatment may make things worse.

When to Seek Medical Help

See a doctor if you have:

• Diarrhea lasting longer than a week
• Blood in your stool
• High fever
• Severe dehydration symptoms

If you’re in Indonesia, including Bali, you can use the Halodoc app to consult an English-speaking doctor online. 

They can arrange lab tests, prescribe the right medicine, and even have it delivered to your accommodation.

Prevention Tips

• Drink bottled or filtered water only
• Avoid ice cubes unless you’re sure they’re made from safe water
• Wash hands regularly
• Eat well-cooked food and avoid raw salads or unwashed fruits

Parasite-related Bali belly can be more stubborn than the usual bacterial kind, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can recover fully and continue enjoying your trip. 

Staying cautious with what you eat and drink is the best prevention.

However, if Bali belly symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. 

Contact our English-speaking doctor directly from your smartphone using the Halodoc app at any time. Doctors are available 24 hours to answer your questions.

You can also purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

References:

CDC. Accessed in 2025. Travelers’ Diarrhea.

John Hopkins Medicine. Accessed in 2025. Traveler’s Diarrhea.

WebMD. Accessed in 2025. Traveler’s Diarrhea: Quick Remedies.