H. Pylori (Helicobacter Pylori) is a bacterial infection that attacks the stomach lining. It is therefore characterized by its capability of surviving within the acidic environment in the stomach. (1)

Due to its high prevalence, affecting nearly half of the world's population, you should take proactive steps for prevention and timely treatment. In this article explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment of H. pylori.

Is H. Pylori a Serious Problem?

The severity of H. pylori infection varies from person to person. In fact, around 80% of people with H. pylori don't experience any symptoms or health problems. They might even live with the bacteria without even realizing being infected.

However, for the remaining 20%, H. pylori can cause symptoms and even further health complications if left untreated, such as: (1)

• Stomach or Duodenal Ulcers: H. pylori can damage the protective lining of the stomach and small intestine, potentially creating an open sore (ulcer). This can cause pain and bleeding.
• Stomach Cancer: In rare cases, long-term H. Pylori infection can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer.

The reasons for the varying severity of H. Pylori among individuals are not yet fully understood.

H. Pylori Symptoms

While many people with H. Pylori are asymptomatic, some may experience the following: (1)(2)

• Stomach Pain (the most common symptom) Dull or burning pain in the stomach, often worsens when the stomach is empty, such as between meals or at night, and may improve after eating, drinking milk, or taking an antacid. 
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Burping often.
• Bloating.
• Indigestion.
• Unexplained weight loss.

When to See a Doctor?

See a doctor if the symptoms described above persist or worsen to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

Seek medical care immediately if you experience any of these symptoms: (2)(4)

• Severe and persistent abdominal pain that wakes you up at night.
• Bloody or black, tarry-colored stool.
• Throwing up blood, which may be coffee-colored or bright red because blood is present in the vomit.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• Pale skin.

Remember that these symptoms are similar to those of other conditions and do not necessarily point to H. Pylori.

Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital offers the latest diagnostic technology for all digestive system issues. Schedule an appointment today in the Gastroenterology Department, where expertise, efficiency, and excellent healthcare meet.

Causes of H.pylori, and Is it Contagious?

H. pylori infection happens when H. pylori bacteria infect your stomach. H. Pylori is contagious; mostly transferred from person to person through direct contact with the saliva, vomit, or feces of an infected individual. It could also be passed via contaminated food or water. This is how: (3)

• Contaminated Food or Water: The ingestion of food or water contaminated with this bacterium can result in H. Pylori infection.
• Contaminated Feces or Vomit: Touching infected feces or vomit and then touching your mouth or food is another way the bacterium can enter your body.
• Direct Contact With Saliva (e.g., kissing): It can also spread through kissing or sharing utensils with an infected person.

Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as thoroughly washing your hands and ensuring the safety of food and drink, can help reduce the risk of contracting an H. Pylori infection.

Diagnosing of H. Pylori

H. Pylori can be diagnosed through multiple tests, including stool tests, blood tests, urea breath tests, or endoscopy. Your doctor will decide which tests are necessary based on your symptoms and individual condition. (3)

Treatment of H. Pylori

Medications: If you are diagnosed with H. Pylori, your doctor will likely prescribe a combination of antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria. They may also recommend medications to reduce stomach acid production, allowing the stomach lining to heal. (3)

Adherence is crucial: It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and medications precisely and complete the treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications. The treatment duration is typically around 2 weeks. (3)

Treatment failure: Up to 20% of patients with H. pylori infection are not cured despite completing their first course of treatment. These patients will need a second treatment regimen. That is why Your doctor usually recommends re-testing for H. Pylori approximately 4 weeks after completion of initial treatment to ensure the infection has been successfully eradicated.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid with H. Pylori

Certain foods and drinks may exacerbate H. Pylori symptoms and worsen your condition. Pay attention to your body’s reactions after consuming them and avoid what worsens your symptoms. These foods and drinks include: (5)

• Caffeinated beverages
  • Tea.
  • Coffee.
  • Soft drinks.
  • Energy drinks.
• Acidic, spicy, fatty, or fried foods and drinks
  • Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit.
  • Tomatoes.
  • Hot peppers.
  • Fatty or fried foods.
  • Fast food.
• Alcoholic beverages.
• Smoking and tobacco products.

References

1. H. Pylori Infection: How Do You Get, Causes, Symptoms, Tests & Treatment, Cleveland Clinic
2. H. pylori Infection: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment, WebMD
3. Patient education: Helicobacter pylori infection and treatment, UpToDate
4. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection - Symptoms & causes, Mayo Clinic‍
5. Gastritis, NHS