"Montezuma revenge" is a common term for traveler’s diarrhea contracted in Mexico, Central America or South America. The correct spelling is actually "Montezuma's revenge," with the possessive apostrophe. The word "Montezuma" is pronounced /ˌmɑːntɪˈzuːmə/ and refers to the Aztec emperor. The word "revenge" is pronounced /rɪˈvɛndʒ/ and signifies the retaliation or punishment inflicted for an injury or wrong suffered. So, "Montezuma's revenge" is a term that metaphorically describes the unpleasant digestive symptoms that one may experience while traveling to these areas.
Montezuma's Revenge is a colloquial term often used to describe a prevalent gastrointestinal illness experienced by individuals when traveling to foreign countries, particularly Mexico and other areas in Latin America. This ailment is typically characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and occasionally fever.
The term Montezuma's Revenge originated from the belief that these symptoms are primarily caused by exposure to unfamiliar or contaminated food, water, or environmental conditions in the visited country. It references the well-known historical figure Montezuma II, who ruled as the ninth Aztec emperor in the 16th century until the arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés. The phrase suggests a metaphorical revenge by the Aztec ruler, blaming him for the gastrointestinal distress suffered by foreign visitors to his land.
The condition primarily occurs due to the presence of bacteria, parasites, or viruses that may be found in local water sources, unhygienic food preparation, inadequate handwashing practices, or inadequate food storage and handling. The symptoms usually appear within a few days of exposure, but the severity and duration of Montezuma's Revenge generally vary from person to person.
To prevent Montezuma's Revenge, individuals are advised to follow some basic precautions. These include consuming only purified or bottled water, avoiding ice in drinks, practicing proper hand hygiene, avoiding raw or undercooked foods, and only eating fruits and vegetables that have been thoroughly washed or peeled.
Although Montezuma's Revenge can be an uncomfortable and inconvenient experience, it typically resolves within a few days with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is recommended.
The term "Montezuma's Revenge" is a colloquial name for a type of traveler's diarrhea that usually affects tourists visiting Mexico or other foreign countries. The term itself does not have a formal etymology but is a popular expression used to describe this specific ailment.
The name is derived from the historical figure Montezuma II, who was the Aztec emperor at the time of the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the early 16th century. According to accounts by Spanish conquistadors, Montezuma II suffered from gastrointestinal illnesses and was sensitive to foreign foods and drinks. Therefore, the term "Montezuma's Revenge" was likely coined to suggest a link between the illness experienced by tourists and the supposed afflictions suffered by Montezuma II.
However, it is important to note that the term may be considered somewhat derogatory or culturally insensitive, as it perpetuates stereotypes about Mexico and its people.