Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a spiral-shaped bacteria that infects the stomach lining, causing:
✔ Chronic gastritis (stomach inflammation)
✔ Peptic ulcers (stomach/duodenal ulcers)
✔ Increased risk of stomach cancer in some cases
How Do You Get H. pylori?
The infection is very common (affects ~50% of people worldwide) and spreads through:
✅ Contaminated food/water
✅ Close contact (kissing, sharing utensils)
✅ Poor hygiene (not washing hands)
Most infections occur in childhood and persist if untreated.
Symptoms of H. pylori Infection
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Burning stomach pain (worse on an empty stomach)
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Frequent bloating & nausea
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Loss of appetite
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Unexplained weight loss
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Dark stools (if ulcers bleed)
⚠️ Many people have NO symptoms but still develop complications.
Diagnosis: How is H. pylori Detected?
| Test | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Urea Breath Test | Detects bacterial byproducts in breath | Non-invasive, accurate |
| Stool Antigen Test | Checks for H. pylori in stool | Easy for children |
| Endoscopy + Biopsy | Examines stomach lining directly | Severe cases, cancer screening |
Treatment: Eradicating H. pylori
1. Antibiotic Therapy (Triple or Quadruple Therapy)
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2 antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, clarithromycin)
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Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) (reduces stomach acid)
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Bismuth subsalicylate (in some regimens)
2. Follow-Up Testing
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Repeat breath/stool test 4 weeks after treatment
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Second-line therapy if first fails (due to antibiotic resistance)
Possible Complications If Untreated
❌ Chronic ulcers (bleeding, perforation risk)
❌ Stomach cancer (1–3% of cases)
❌ Vitamin B12 deficiency (due to poor absorption)
Prevention Tips
✔ Wash hands before eating
✔ Drink clean water (avoid untreated sources)
✔ Avoid sharing food/drinks with infected individuals
FAQs About H. pylori
Q: Is H. pylori contagious?
A: Yes—it spreads through saliva, vomit, or stool.
Q: Can diet help fight H. pylori?
A: Probiotics (yogurt, kefir) may support treatment, but antibiotics are essential.
Q: Does H. pylori always cause ulcers?
A: No—only ~10–20% develop ulcers.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if you have:
🔹 Persistent stomach pain
🔹 Black/tarry stools (sign of bleeding)
🔹 Unexplained weight loss
