You are about to go to Mexico. You packed everything you need: a toothbrush, bathing suit, flip flops and maybe even some snorkel gear. You've checked off everything on your list, that is, except for one thing you probably haven't thought of; the knowledge of what to do and what not to do when it comes to staying healthy in a foreign country.

When traveling to Mexico, the most common health scare is an illness called Montezuma's Revenge. The name sounds familiar, but many have no idea of its actual meaning.

Montezuma's Revenge is a tourist's term for diarrhea. In fact, its technical name is Traveler's Diarrhea (TD). Technically, Montezuma's Revenge/TD refers to a bacterial illness which can occasionally become serious. Most cases are caused by E. Coli bacteria. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever and malaise.

Montezuma's Revenge can be caused by drinking the Mexican tap water (including ice) and eating the spicy foods that many tourists are not accustomed to. While the tap water and food may taste great, it doesn't mean Montezuma's Revenge isn't lurking in each sip or bite.

Simple tips to avoid Montezuma's Revenge:

1) Drink, wash face and brush teeth with bottled water
2) Eat foods that are somewhat familiar to what you usually eat
3) Use hand sanitizers frequently
4) Keep your mouth closed during showers and when in the ocean
5) Wipe off soda can openings with bottled water or sanitizer, or drink out of a glass

Other Creative Names for Montezuma's Revenge:

Mexico:
Gringo Gallop
Aztec Two-step
Asia:
Ghandi's Revenge
Gyppy Tummy
Tokyo Trots
India:
Dehli Belly
US:
Mountaineers

Fun Fact: Why is TD considered Montezuma's Revenge?

According to The Phrase Finder: "The revenge element of the phrase alludes to countries that were previously colonized by stronger countries and are now, in this small way, getting their own back. Names for it vary depending on the part of the world concerned."


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