Helicobacter pylori

Alternative Names

Gastritis - Helicobacter pylori; H. pylori

Symptoms

If you are a carrier of H. pylori, you may have no symptoms. If you have an ulcer or gastritis, you may have some of the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain
• Dyspepsia or indigestion
• Bloating and fullness
• Mild nausea (may be relieved by vomiting)
• Belching and regurgitation
• Feeling very hungry 1 to 3 hours after eating

Exams and Tests

Simple blood, breath, and stool tests can determine if you are infected with H. pylori. If you have symptoms, your doctor will determine if you are an appropriate candidate for these screening tests.

The most accurate way to diagnose H. pylori, however, is through upper endoscopy of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Because this procedure is invasive, it is generally reserved for people at high risk for ulcers or other complications from H. pylori, such as having stomach cancer. Such risk factors include being over 45 or having symptoms such as:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Anemia
• Difficulty swallowing

Once diagnosed and treated, the breath and stool tests are used to determine if you have been cured of the infection.

References

Ables AZ, Simon I, Melton ER. Update on Helicobacter pylori treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2007;75(3):351-358.