Definition
Helicobacter pylori
(H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach and intestines. It can lead to:
Treatment for H. pylori is done with antibiotics and other medication that relieves symptoms.
Causes
This condition occurs when an infected person passes the bacteria to someone else. The bacteria are spread through:
- Fecal-oral contact
- Oral-oral contact
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your risk of h. pylori infection include being in:
- Close contact with an infected person
- A crowded and unsanitary living environment
Symptoms
In most cases, there are not any symptoms. However, if someone develops an ulcer or gastritis, symptoms may include:
-
Abdominal pain that may:
- Awaken you from sleep
- Change when you eat
- Last for a few minutes or several hours
- Feel like unusually strong hunger pangs
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Black, tarry, or bloody stools
- Burping
- Vomiting blood
- Lightheadedness
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Tests may include:
- Blood tests
- Stool test
- Endoscopy—a thin, lighted tube inserted down your throat to look inside your stomach and to take tissue samples for testing
- Urea breath test—a test that can help detect if there is a current infection
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Your doctor may recommend:
- Antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection
- H-2 blockers
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Antacids
Prevention
To reduce your chances of getting h. pylori infection, take these steps:
- Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food.
- Drink water from a safe source.
-
Do not
smoke. Smoking increases the chance of getting an ulcer.