H. pylori is one of the most widespread bacterial infections in the world, estimated to affect about half of all people, with high rates in our region. Although many carry it without symptoms for life, it can cause ulcers and serious disease if neglected. The ClinicsJo Editorial Team explains everything about this bacterium.
What Is H. pylori?
It is a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori that can survive the stomach's harsh acidic environment, attaches to its lining, and weakens the protective mucous layer, causing chronic inflammation that may lead to ulcers over time.
How Does Infection Spread?
- Through contaminated food and water.
- Person to person via saliva and shared utensils.
- Poor hygiene and crowded living.
Infection often begins in childhood and lasts for years undetected, sometimes spreading among family members.
Symptoms
- Pain or burning in the upper abdomen, worse when hungry.
- Bloating, gas, and fullness.
- Nausea and loss of appetite.
- Frequent belching.
- In advanced cases: anemia, vomiting blood, or black stools.
Many infected people have no symptoms at all, and the bacterium is found incidentally.
Link to Ulcers and Cancer
H. pylori is the main cause of most stomach and duodenal ulcers. The WHO classifies it as a factor that raises long-term stomach cancer risk, so treatment is advised when symptoms, an ulcer, or a family history of stomach cancer exist.
How Is It Diagnosed?
- Urea breath test: accurate and non-invasive.
- Stool antigen test.
- Endoscopy with biopsy when stomach examination is needed.
- Blood antibody test (less accurate for confirming cure).
Treatment
Treatment uses a "triple" or "quadruple" regimen for 10–14 days, including:
- Two antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria.
- A proton pump inhibitor to reduce acid and aid healing.
- Sometimes a bismuth compound in quadruple therapy.
Completing the full course is essential to avoid antibiotic resistance, and a follow-up test at least a month after finishing confirms eradication.
Medical tip: repeating treatment without confirming success with a breath or stool test is a common mistake. Always do the follow-up test at least four weeks after stopping medication.
Prevention
- Wash hands well before eating and after the bathroom.
- Drink clean water and wash fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid sharing personal utensils and cups.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for recurrent stomach pain, burning, or persistent bloating, and seek urgent care for vomiting blood, black stools, or unexplained weight loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is H. pylori contagious?
Yes, it spreads between people, so testing family members is sometimes advised with recurrent infection.
Does it come back after treatment?
Recurrence is low after successful treatment, but reinfection is possible with poor hygiene.
Must it always be treated?
Treatment is advised with symptoms, an ulcer, or risk factors; the doctor decides based on the case.
To diagnose and properly treat H. pylori, book with a gastroenterologist on ClinicsJo.
