Next steps after medical consultation — updated 2026
Quick Answer
After seeing a doctor in Bali, you should
follow the prescribed treatment,
monitor your symptoms closely,
and return for follow-up care
if symptoms do not improve or worsen within the advised timeframe.
Step 1: Take Medication Exactly as Prescribed
If the doctor prescribes medication, it is important to:
Follow the dosage and timing exactly
Complete the full course, especially antibiotics
Avoid mixing medications unless advised by a doctor
Ask if alcohol or certain foods should be avoided
If you experience side effects, contact the clinic before stopping medication.
Step 2: Monitor Your Symptoms
Most common conditions should start improving within
24–72 hours.
Track fever, pain, or digestive symptoms
Monitor hydration and urine output
Note any new or worsening symptoms
Step 3: Know When to Return to a Doctor
You should return to a clinic or contact a doctor if:
Symptoms do not improve within the expected timeframe
Symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear
You cannot tolerate prescribed medication
You develop fever, severe pain, or dehydration
What If You Had Blood Tests or Lab Work?
If tests were taken, ask:
When results will be available
How results will be communicated (WhatsApp, email, in person)
Whether a follow-up consultation is needed
Do not assume “no news is good news.”
Always confirm test results.
Can You Travel After Seeing a Doctor?
Many people can continue traveling after treatment,
but you should ask your doctor if you:
Have fever, dehydration, or infection
Recently received IV therapy
Are flying within 24–48 hours
When to Seek Emergency Care
Seek emergency hospital care immediately if you experience:
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Loss of consciousness or seizures
Severe allergic reactions
Uncontrolled vomiting or bleeding
Key Takeaway
Seeing a doctor is often just the first step.
Proper aftercare, monitoring, and follow-up are essential
to recover safely and avoid complications while in Bali.
Educational only — not a substitute for a doctor's assessment.
Taking Your Medicines Correctly
Antibiotics: finish the course unless the doctor tells you otherwise, even if you feel better.
Metronidazole or tinidazole (sometimes used for gut infections): no alcohol during treatment and for at least 48–72 hours after.
Oral contraceptive pill: vomiting or severe diarrhea can stop it from working — use condoms and check the leaflet for missed-pill rules.
Anti-nausea medicine can make you drowsy; do not ride a scooter or surf until it wears off.
Doxycycline makes skin burn more easily in the sun — use strong sunscreen.
Keep Your Paperwork
Take a photo of your prescription, receipt and any test results. You will need them for insurance claims, if symptoms come back, or if you see a doctor at home. Ask for a medical report if you plan to claim on insurance or need to change a flight.
Flying After Being Unwell
You can usually fly once you can keep fluids down, walk without dizziness and have no high fever. Some airlines ask for a fit-to-fly letter after illness or injury — ask the doctor if you are unsure. Chickenpox, measles and active flu with high fever are reasons to delay travel. See too sick to fly from Bali?
Follow-Up Checklist
If you were treated for…
Follow up if…
Bali Belly
No improvement after 48 hours, blood in stool, fever
Fever / suspected dengue
Repeat blood test as advised; urgently if abdominal pain, vomiting or bleeding
Wound or bite
Spreading redness, pus, fever; next rabies dose on schedule
Ear infection
Pain after 3 days of drops
STD test
Positive result — treatment, partner notification, retest at 3 months
Patients of Dewa Medical can message us on WhatsApp with their name and visit date for follow-up questions — see what to do if symptoms come back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol while taking antibiotics in Bali?
It depends on the antibiotic. With metronidazole or tinidazole, avoid alcohol completely during treatment and for 48–72 hours after. Ask your doctor about others.
Do I need a fit-to-fly letter after being sick in Bali?
Not usually, but some airlines request one after illness, injury or surgery. A doctor can assess you and provide a letter if appropriate.
Does diarrhea affect the contraceptive pill?
Yes. Vomiting or severe diarrhea can reduce absorption — use condoms and follow the missed-pill guidance.