Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that lives in the lining of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. It can thrive in acidic environments, allowing it to reside in the stomach for many decades. This bacterium causes stomach abnormalities, increasing the risk of stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.
What is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)?
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that lives in the lining of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. It can thrive in acidic environments, allowing it to reside in the stomach for many decades. This bacterium causes stomach abnormalities, increasing the risk of stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.
How is H. pylori transmitted?
It is believed that H. pylori can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, such as mouth-to-mouth contact, or by consuming contaminated food or water. Living with someone who has H. pylori increases the risk of infection.
What are the symptoms of H. pylori infection?
Most people with H. pylori infection develop chronic gastritis without symptoms. However, some may experience inflammation of the stomach lining, leading to symptoms such as:
- Chronic, recurrent stomach pain, often in the upper abdomen, with severe pain when the stomach is empty or after eating
- Bloating and indigestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting blood or dark brown vomit, and black, tarry stools in cases of upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Who should be tested for H. pylori?
- Individuals with symptoms of stomach disease
- Those with lesions in the stomach, including gastritis, stomach ulcers, or duodenal ulcers
- Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer
- People who need to take pain relievers or NSAIDs regularly
How is H. pylori detected?
H. pylori can be detected using several methods:
- Urea Breath Test: The patient drinks a urea solution, and their breath is analyzed for increased ammonia levels, indicating the presence of H. pylori in the digestive tract.
- Endoscopy: A sample of the stomach lining is collected for testing for infection or pathology.
- Stool Antigen Test: A stool sample is tested for H. pylori antigens, indicating infection.
- Blood Antibody Test: Detects antibodies to H. pylori, confirming exposure but not distinguishing between current and past infections.
How is H. pylori infection treated?
H. pylori infection can be treated with acid-suppressing drugs combined with antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria. The treatment typically lasts 1-2 weeks, depending on the patient’s condition.
After treatment, patients should be re-tested, possibly using the breath test, to monitor the treatment’s effectiveness. If the infection persists, the patient may need a different treatment regimen.
