The symptoms of H. pylori infection are among the most bothersome issues, as it is one of the most common diseases affecting the digestive system, with millions of people being affected daily.
This bacterium causes several annoying symptoms, including stomach pain, bloating, and a persistent feeling of nausea.
To learn more about how to treat this type of bacteria affecting the stomach, as well as understanding its main symptoms.
Treatment methods, and some possible causes, follow this article on the evercare website, where we will cover all the details.
What is H. pylori?
H. pylori is known by several names, including Helicobacter pylori, the spiral bacterium, or simply gastric bacteria.
It is a gram-negative bacterium that lives and multiplies in the stomach wall, being one of the primary causes of stomach and duodenal inflammation.
This type of bacterium was first discovered by Australian researchers, who identified it as a leading cause of ulcers that must be treated, as it does not heal on its own.
While the discovery of H. pylori and its treatment has advanced, the exact cause of infection remains unclear.
Some treatments only help reduce its symptoms rather than completely eradicate it.
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Causes of H. pylori infection
The reasons behind H. pylori infection are still scientifically unknown, with no specific cause identified to date.
Nevertheless, there are some common possibilities believed to contribute to the transmission of this bacterial infection, including:
- Transmission through saliva.
- Contaminated drinks.
- Use of contaminated cooking utensils.
- Infected food.
- Poor hand hygiene.
Key symptoms of H. pylori infection
Sometimes, a person may have the bacteria in the stomach walls without experiencing any bothersome symptoms, making it difficult to notice its presence.
However, most cases involve several irritating symptoms.
The variation in the severity of symptoms depends on the intensity of the infection.
In general, the most common symptoms of H. pylori include:
- Discomfort in the abdomen.
- Belching.
- Vomiting.
- Nausea.
These common symptoms may worsen on an empty stomach, between meals, during sleep, or in the middle of the night.
In severe cases, symptoms can include:
- Persistent fatigue.
- Vomiting with blood.
- Exhaustion.
- Loss of appetite.
- Diarrhea.
- Anemia.
- Black stools.
- Stomach ulcers.
- Weight loss.
- Bad breath.
- Pale skin.
- Breathing difficulties.
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How to diagnose H. pylori infection
Since H. pylori is an infectious disease that can spread unknowingly and may not show symptoms in mild cases, diagnosis can be challenging.
However, when symptoms appear—especially those leading to ulcers—patients may undergo tests to identify the bacteria's activity.
Doctors may also consider the patient's medical history to assess the risk and presence of the infection.
Diagnostic methods include:
- Clinical examination.
- Reviewing medical history for prior infections.
- Lab tests for Blood and stool.
- Biopsy.
- Endoscopy to examine the stomach.
- Breath test.
- X-rays.
Treatment of H. pylori infection
After necessary tests confirm the presence of H. pylori, the patient must follow a treatment protocol prescribed by the doctor, tailored to the patient’s condition and the infection severity.
Treatment usually lasts for at least 14 days and may extend in severe cases.
The doctor typically prescribes:
- Antibiotics to kill the bacteria.
- Bismuth subsalicylate to protect ulcers from stomach acid.
- Proton pump inhibitors to reduce acidity.
Since H. pylori can evolve and resist antibiotics, doctors often recommend combining multiple antibiotics with other treatments to ensure complete recovery.
After treatment, patients undergo follow-up tests to confirm the bacteria has been eradicated.
If the infection persists, the doctor may repeat medications or alter the protocol for full recovery.
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Signs of recovery from H. pylori
By following the prescribed treatment for approximately 14 days, symptoms of H. pylori may disappear.
If follow-up tests show no traces of the bacteria, recovery can be confirmed.
Signs of recovery include:
- Regaining appetite.
- Disappearance of nausea.
- Improved digestion.
- Resolution of symptoms.
Patients are advised to undergo comprehensive testing four weeks after treatment and consult their doctor periodically to ensure the bacteria does not return.
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Prevention of H. pylori infection
H. pylori is a common bacterial infection affecting over 50% of the global population.
Many people are unaware of their infection due to a lack of symptoms.
To prevent H. pylori infection, consider the following precautions:
- Avoid contaminated food.
- Stop smoking.
- Refrain from consuming energy drinks.
- Avoid spicy and heavily seasoned food.
- Eat thoroughly cooked meals.
- Maintain proper hygiene and wash hands regularly.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Limit fast food intake.
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FAQs about H. pylori symptoms
When does H. pylori die?
H. pylori can be eradicated by following the treatment protocol prescribed by your doctor.
Is H. pylori contagious?
Yes, it can spread from person to person through saliva, shared public restrooms, or contaminated food.
When can you recover from H. pylori?
Recovery usually occurs within 8 weeks if the prescribed treatment is followed diligently.