Health A-Z

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach lining. Here's some information on its symptoms, diagnosis, testing, and treatment.

1. Dyspepsia: This is the most common symptom associated with H. pylori infection. It includes discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often described as burning or gnawing.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience these symptoms, especially if the infection leads to gastritis or peptic ulcers.
3. Bloating and belching: H. pylori infection can lead to excessive gas production in the stomach, causing bloating and frequent belching.
4. Loss of appetite: Some people may experience a decreased desire to eat due to the discomfort associated with H. pylori infection.
5. Unintended weight loss: Severe cases of H. pylori infection can lead to weight loss due to decreased appetite and malabsorption of nutrients.

1. Antibiotics: The primary treatment for H. pylori infection involves a combination of antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Commonly used antibiotics include clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and metronidazole.
2. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications help reduce stomach acid production, which can help relieve symptoms and promote healing of ulcers caused by H. pylori infection.
3. Bismuth subsalicylate: This medication can help protect the stomach lining and enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics against H. pylori.
4. Follow-up testing: After completing treatment, your doctor may recommend follow-up testing to confirm that the infection has been successfully eradicated.

1. Blood tests: Blood tests can detect the presence of antibodies to H. pylori in your blood. However, these antibodies can persist for years even after the infection has been treated, so blood tests are not typically used to confirm active infection but can be used to screen for past exposure.
2. Stool tests: These tests detect H. pylori antigens in your stool. Stool tests are commonly used to diagnose active H. pylori infection and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
3. Breath tests: This involves drinking a solution containing a substance that H. pylori bacteria can metabolize. If the bacteria are present, they will produce carbon dioxide, which can be detected in your breath.
4. Endoscopy: A procedure called an upper endoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera down your throat to examine your stomach lining. During this procedure, your doctor may take a tissue sample (biopsy) from your stomach lining to test for the presence of H. pylori bacteria.