H. Pylori Infection: Everything You Should Know in 2022

Pylori is a type of bacteria that can lead to gastritis and peptic ulcer. Research studies highlight the fact that only 20% of those infected show symptoms. More often, symptoms come in the form of unplanned weight loss, burning stomach pain, and bloody vomit. Proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics are some of the medicines prescribed for H. Pylori treatment.

Who are vulnerable to H. Pylori infections?

Pylori bacteria are present in 50-70% of the global population. However, it doesn’t cause illness in most individuals. H. Pylori infection is very prevalent in developing countries. Children who reside in crowded conditions with poor sanitation provisions are more likely to get infected by H. Pylori bacteria.

 

Symptoms

When the H. Pylori infection is mild, it won’t show any signs or symptoms. But if the problem is severe, you will have a tough time ahead. The common symptoms associated with H. Pylori infection are listed below:

1. Burning stomach pain.
2. Nausea.
3. Loss of appetite.
4. Bloating.
5. Frequent burping.
6. Unintentional weight loss.

Diagnosis of H. Pylori infection

If your healthcare practitioner believes H. Pylori bacteria are causing a stomach ulcer, he may recommend one or more of the below-mentioned tests:

1. Breath test.
2. Stool test.
3. Upper endoscopy.

Treatment of H. Pylori

When you are suffering from H. Pylori infection and don’t have symptoms, there is no need for H. Pylori treatment. However, if the symptoms are severe, you need to take anti-inflammatory drugs. Usually, H. Pylori-caused ulcers are treated with antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors:

1. Antibiotics: The common choices for antibiotics come in the form of amoxicillin, metronidazole, clarithromycin, and tetracycline.
2. Proton pump inhibitors: The popular proton pump inhibitors include omeprazole, lansoprazole, rabeprazole, pantoprazole, or esomeprazole.
3. Bismuth subsalicylate: More often, this drug is added to the proton pump inhibitors for better outcomes. Bismuth subsalicylate plays a significant hand in protecting the stomach lining.

Prevention

There are certain ways by which you can prevent yourself from getting an H. Pylori infection:

1. It’s advisable to wash your hands after using the bathroom and before eating. You should also teach your children to practice this habit.
2. Avoid contaminated food and water.
3. Don’t consume anything that isn’t cooked thoroughly.

In most instances, an H. Pylori infection heals after a few days of treatment. During the H. Pylori treatment, it’s recommended not to take NSAIDs for pain since these drugs can have a negative impact on your stomach lining. You should always ask your doctor to prescribe medications.