Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Definition

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach and intestines. It can lead to:

• Gastritis, a inflammation of the stomach lining
• Ulcers

Treatment for H. pylori is done with antibiotics and other medication that relieves symptoms.

Gastric Ulcer

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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.