What is Helicobacter Pylori?

Helicobacter pylori, often called H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can live in the lining of the stomach. While many people with the infection never feel sick, the bacteria can irritate and weaken the stomach lining over time.

In some cases, H. pylori can lead to gastritis or painful sores called peptic ulcers. If left untreated for many years, it may also increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Experts believe H. pylori may spread through close personal contact or contaminated food and water. Poor sanitation and crowded living conditions can increase the risk of infection.

Symptoms

Many people with H. pylori do not notice symptoms right away. When symptoms do occur, they are often related to irritation or ulcers in the stomach.

Common symptoms may include:

• Burning or aching stomach pain
• Bloating
• Frequent burping
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting
• Pain that feels worse when the stomach is empty or during the night

More serious symptoms can include black stools, vomiting blood, or feeling weak from anemia. These symptoms need prompt medical attention.

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and overall health. Several tests can help confirm an H. pylori infection.

Common diagnostic tests include:

• Urea breath testing
• Stool antigen testing
• Blood testing
• Upper endoscopy with biopsy when ulcers or bleeding are suspected

An endoscopy allows your provider to examine the stomach lining and collect a small tissue sample if needed.

How is it treated?

H. pylori is usually treated with a combination of medications designed to clear the infection and reduce stomach acid. Treatment often includes two or more antibiotics along with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Some patients may also need additional medications to help protect the stomach lining while healing occurs.

It is important to take every medication exactly as prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly. After treatment, your provider may repeat testing to confirm the bacteria has been removed.

Most people begin feeling better within a few weeks once treatment starts.