H. pylori

H. pylori or Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach. It is known to be a common cause of peptic ulcers. H. pylori infection may be present in more than half the people in the world.

Causes

The exact way H. pylori infects someone is still unknown. H. pylori can be transmitted from person to person by close contact and exposure to vomit, fecal matter, or contaminated food and water.

Symptoms

Most people with H. pylori infection will never have any signs or symptoms. It's not clear why this is, but some people may be born with more resistance to the harmful effects of H. pylori.

When signs or symptoms do occur with H. pylori infection, they may include:

• An ache or burning pain in your abdomen
• Abdominal pain that's worse when your stomach is empty
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent burping
• Bloating
• Unintentional weight loss

Diagnosis

Tests and procedures used to determine whether you have an H. pylori infection include:

• Blood test
• Stool test
• Breath test
• Endoscopy

Treatment

Treatment for H. pylori infection is complicated because the bacteria can mutate and become resistant to common antibiotics. Therefore, two types of antibiotics are recommended, which are usually taken over a period of 14 days. Proton pump inhibitors are also used to reduce stomach acid and allow the antibiotics to work more effectively.

Prevention

Currently, there is no vaccine available to prevent H. pylori infection. However, you can take steps to protect yourself from infections, such as washing your hands before eating and drinking clean water.

See also

• Peptic ulcer
• Stomach cancer
• Gastritis

References

H. pylori Resources
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