Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection occurs when the Helicobacter pylori bacteria infect the stomach, often during childhood. This infection is a common cause of stomach ulcers, known as peptic ulcers, and it affects more than half of the world's population.
Many individuals with H. pylori infection do not experience symptoms and may not realize they are infected. However, if symptoms of a peptic ulcer develop, such as abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, or vomiting, healthcare providers typically test for H. pylori infection.
Treatment for H. pylori infection involves antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria and reduce the risk of complications associated with peptic ulcers.
Source: H. pylori (Heliobacter pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects your stomach.
Symptoms Of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection
Most people infected with H. pylori bacteria won't experience any noticeable symptoms. The reasons why some individuals remain symptom-free are not entirely clear, although some may have a natural resistance to the harmful effects of the bacteria.
However, when symptoms do arise due to H. pylori infection, they usually relate to conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcers.
These symptoms may include:
- Aching or burning pain in the abdomen (stomach)
- Abdominal pain that worsens when the stomach is empty
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent burping
- Bloating
- Unintentional weight loss
Causes Of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection
- pylori infection arises when Helicobacter pylori bacteria infiltrate your stomach.
These bacteria are typically transmitted from one person to another through direct contact with saliva, vomit, or stool.
Additionally, H. pylori can spread through contaminated food or water.
Despite these modes of transmission, the precise mechanism by which H. pylori bacteria trigger gastritis or peptic ulcers in certain individuals remains unclear.
Source: H. pylori and related nutritional factors.
Risk factors for H. pylori infection
These are often linked to childhood living conditions, including:
Living in crowded conditions: Sharing living spaces with many people can heighten the risk of H. pylori transmission.
Lack of access to clean water: Not having a consistent supply of clean, running water increases susceptibility to H. pylori infection.
Residing in a developing country: Individuals in developing nations face a greater likelihood of H. pylori infection, possibly due to prevalent crowded and unsanitary living conditions.
Exposure to an infected individual: Living with someone who has H. pylori infection raises the likelihood of acquiring the infection.
Complications
Complications linked to H. pylori infection comprise:
Ulcers: H. pylori can harm the protective lining of the stomach and small intestine, leading to the formation of open sores (ulcers). Approximately 10% of individuals with H. pylori develop ulcers.
Gastritis: H. pylori infection can provoke irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining, a condition known as gastritis.
Stomach cancer: H. pylori infection significantly increases the risk of specific types of stomach cancer.
A peptic ulcer refers to a sore that develops on the lining of either the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. When it forms in the stomach, it's termed a gastric ulcer, while one that arises in the first segment of the small intestine, known as the duodenum, is called a duodenal ulcer. An esophageal ulcer is located in the lower section of the esophagus.
Prevention Of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection
In regions where H. pylori infection and its related issues are prevalent, healthcare providers may consider testing individuals who are otherwise healthy for H. pylori.
However, the idea of testing for H. pylori when there are no apparent signs or symptoms of infection is a topic of debate among experts.
If you have concerns about H. pylori infection or suspect you might be at a heightened risk of stomach cancer, it's advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Together, you can assess whether undergoing H. pylori testing could be beneficial for you.
When to See a Doctor
If you observe any signs or symptoms suggestive of gastritis or a peptic ulcer, it's important to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or persistent stomach (abdominal) pain that disrupts your sleep
- Stools that are bloody or black and tarry in appearance
- Vomiting that is bloody or black, or vomit resembling coffee grounds
