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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacterium that can infect the stomach lining and is a common cause of stomach inflammation (gastritis), peptic ulcers, and, less commonly, stomach cancer. The bacteria are adapted to live in the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach. Many people who are infected never experience symptoms or complications.
Causes
- Close contact: The bacteria can be passed from person to person through saliva or by coming into contact with vomit or stool from an infected person, especially in unsanitary conditions.
- Contaminated food or water: H. pylori can be present on food or in water that has not been properly cleaned or treated.
Symptoms
Most people with an H. pylori infection do not have any symptoms. When they do, symptoms are often related to gastritis or a peptic ulcer and may include:
- A dull or burning pain in the stomach or upper abdomen
- Stomach pain that may get worse when the stomach is empty
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Bloating
- Frequent burping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling full after eating only a small amount of food
Diagnosis
A doctor may use one or more of the following tests to diagnose an H. pylori infection:
- Breath test: You swallow a liquid containing a substance with tagged carbon molecules. If H. pylori is present, it breaks down the substance and releases the carbon, which is then detected when you exhale into a bag.
- Stool test: A sample of stool is tested for the presence of H. pylori proteins (antigens).
- Blood test: This test checks for antibodies that indicate an active or past infection.
- Scope test (Upper endoscopy): A long, flexible tube with a camera is passed down your throat to look for signs of inflammation or ulcers. A tissue sample (biopsy) can also be taken for further analysis.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical attention if you have persistent stomach pain or any of the following serious symptoms, as they may indicate a complication such as a bleeding ulcer or stomach perforation:
- Severe, sudden, or sharp stomach pain that does not go away
- Bloody or black, tarry stools
- Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dizziness or fainting