Helicobacter Pylori
Overview
Helicobacter Pylori Overview
Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) is a common type of bacteria that grows in the digestive tract. Most people with H. pylori infection will never have any signs or symptoms, and it’s not clear how H. pylori infects people or why some never get sick. However, if untreated, chronic H pylori infection may lead to development of peptic ulcer disease and other complications. If you’re concerned about H. pylori infection or think you’re at high risk of stomach cancer, you should see your doctor to discuss having a H. pylori screening.
Complications
Helicobacter Pylori Risks and Complications
Complication from H. pylori infection include:
- Gastritis or inflammation of the stomach.
- Ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.
- H. pylori are a strong risk factor for certain types of stomach cancers.
Symptoms
Helicobacter Pylori Symptoms
When signs and symptoms of H. pylori infection do occur, they may include the following:
- Burning pain in your abdomen
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Excessive burping
- Unintended weight loss
You should see immediately see your doctor if you experience:
- Persistent and severe abdominal pain
- Trouble swallowing
- Blood in your stool
- Bloody or black vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Diagnosis
Helicobacter Pylori Diagnosis
Tests and procedures to diagnose H. pylori infection include:
A Blood Test
A blood test which checks for antibodies to H Pylori, this test will not be able to distinguish between a current active infection or previous infection that has been cleared, but if the test is negative it indicates H pylori infection is not present.
A H. Pylori Breath Test
A H. pylori breath test is a simple quick test to detect active H. pylori bacteria.
A Stool Test
A stool test looks for foreign proteins (antigens) associated with H. pylori infection.
An Upper Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy is when your doctor threads a long flexible tube with a camera down your throat and esophagus and into your stomach and duodenum to look for abnormalities and take tissue samples for testing.
Treatments
Helicobacter Pylori Treatments
Your Saint John’s Physician Partners surgeons will discuss with you the best treatment option for H. pylori infection, which commonly includes the use of antacids and antibiotics.
Specialists
