Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Gastric Ulcer  

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Definition  

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach and intestines. It can lead to:

• Gastritis, a inflammation of the stomach lining
• Ulcers

Treatment for H. pylori is done with antibiotics and other medication that relieves symptoms.

Causes  

This condition occurs when an infected person passes the bacteria to someone else. The bacteria are spread through:

• Fecal-oral contact
• Oral-oral contact

Risk Factors  

Factors that increase your risk of h. pylori infection include being in:

• Close contact with an infected person
• A crowded and unsanitary living environment

Symptoms  

In most cases, there are not any symptoms. However, if someone develops an ulcer or gastritis, symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain that may:
  • Awaken you from sleep
  • Change when you eat
  • Last for a few minutes or several hours
  • Feel like unusually strong hunger pangs
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools
• Burping
• Vomiting blood
• Lightheadedness

Diagnosis