Pain in the abdomen with a burning, acidic quality Indigestion or “gnawing pain” in the stomach Acid reflux Nausea Bloody or black and tarry stools Blood in Vomit Sudden unconsciousness Rigidity of the stomach (peritonitis), in severe cases
Rarely, an H. pylori infection can lead to stomach cancer. That’s why it’s essential never to ignore abdominal pain, bloody stools, and other signs that you might have H. pylori.
A urea breath test. The bacteria produces a urea compound. A urea breath test is the gold standard of diagnostic methods. It is the most accurate test for H. pylori. A stool test antigen, in which a sample is examined in a laboratory for signs of H. pylori. This is considered the second most effective. A blood test. This test reveals the presence of antibodies that fight H. pylori. It is 65 to 95% effective, making it the least reliable test. A biopsy. A tissue sample is removed from your stomach using a procedure called an endoscopy. A biopsy is usually only performed if an endoscopy is needed for other reasons such as treating an ulcer, bleeding, or making sure there is no cancer. [4] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Most doctors will order one of these tests if your symptoms match those of an H. pylori infection.
This is important not only for the health of other household members, but also to prevent reinfection. This is especially important for spouses or other romantic partners. The bacteria may be transmitted through kissing with saliva.
Amoxicillin Tetracycline (for adults and children over 12 years old) Metronidazole Clarithromycin
Your stomach naturally produces acid to aid in digestion, but when you have an ulcer the acid can cause further damage. Most often, doctors will prescribe Bismuth subsalicylate, or Pepto Bismol. It coats the stomach to protect it from acid. It also helps kill the bacteria. [8] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source The amount and frequency will vary based on which antibiotics you are taking.
In most cases, you’ll receive a prescription for Lansoprazole. The amount and frequency of doses will depend on which antibiotics you are taking. Children may prescribed Omeprazole, 1 mg/kg divided twice daily (to a max of 20 mg twice daily) for 14 days.
Reinfection can occur and start the cycle over again if the entire household is not cured. This must be confirmed after four weeks of treatment. [10] X Research source Yazuz Selem Sari, Didem Can, Vahit Tundi et al. Helico Bacter: Treatment Just The Patient or For the Whole Family?. World Journal of Gastroenterology, Feb 28, 2008 14 (8) 1244-1247 If you have severe symptoms during treatment, make an appointment with your doctor right away. Antibiotics do not always work, and your doctor may prescribe different treatment.
Eating a serving of broccoli several times per week may be beneficial.
If you don’t like the taste of green tea, green tea extract has the same beneficial effects. Red wine, which also has high levels of polyphenols, has similar benefits to green tea in animals.
Yogurt, kimchi, kombucha and other fermented products contain probiotics.
Use warm water ( 120 degrees) and 3-5 cc (roughly a teaspoon) of liquid soap. The soap does not have to be antibacterial. Wash for a total of 15-30 seconds.
Exact proportions vary based on weight,gender activity level, etc. But, caloric intake should be approximately 2000 calories per day, as a broad approximation. Get the majority of calories from fresh fruit and vegetables, legumes and grains, and low fat proteins. Even with a balanced diet, 67% of dieticians recommend dietary supplements. These supplements fill nutritional gaps that are not satisfied by food alone. [17] X Research source Dieticians use and recommend dietary supplements: A Report of a survey, Nutrition Journal, 2012 11 14
Be aware that vitamin C is acidic and can irritate the stomach. It’s a good idea to take a buffered form of the vitamin or try to get it through foods. Good choices include cantaloupe, cabbage, citrus fruits, and red pepper. [19] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Because of its acidity, its a good idea to talk to your doctor about Vitamin C supplements you take if you are receiving treatment for H. pylori.
For example, if your spouse has H. pylori, avoid kissing him or her, and do not share a toothbrush.
Consider drinking bottled water when visiting countries with poor water sanitation. Refrain from eating at any questionable or roadside food trucks, etc. Eat only in restaurants with sanitation standards similar to an American standard of sanitation. Kitchen utensils should be washed in hot water (as warm as you can safely tolerate) with antibacterial soap. Using hand sanitizer can also be helpful in these types of situations. Washing your hands with unclean water can do more harm than good.
