Helicobacter pylori

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Digestive system

Gastritis - Helicobacter pylori

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

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 first part of the small intestines (duodenum). Because this procedure is invasive, it is generally reserved for people at high risk for ulcers or other complications from H. pylori, like having stomach cancer. Such risk factors include being over 45 or having alarming symptoms like:

• 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.

Review Date: 01/23/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.