Discover the symptoms of Helicobacter pylori / stomach germs (H. pylori), such as abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, and when to seek medical attention for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. (1)


Overview

  • Stomach germs are spiral bacteria that multiply in the lining of the stomach and are transmitted through the consumption of contaminated foods.
  • Globally, about 50% of people in the world carry the H. pylori infection, in Qatar the prevalence of the germ reaches 77% according to one study.
  • Most people infected with stomach germs do not show any symptoms or problems, a small number develop inflammation or ulcers, and it is not clear why health problems develop in some and others do not.


Helicobacter Pylori Symptoms

Most people infected with H. pylori do not suffer from any symptoms or ulcers to the point that they may not realize that they are infected with it, and symptoms will only appear in 20% of cases, in which the bacteria cause inflammation or ulcers in the stomach. (1)


Symptoms of H. pylori include: (1)( 2)


  • Mild or burning pain in your abdomen (the most common symptom), characterized by:
  • Intermittent pain that lasts for minutes to hours on and off over several days to weeks.
  • It worsens when the stomach is empty, often a few hours after eating and at night
  • It improves after eating, drinking milk, or taking an antacid.


  • Bloating and swelling.
  • Burping.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Weight loss for no apparent reason.




These symptoms are not limited to H. pylori and can also be caused by other GIT diseases. If you suspect that you have H. pylori, or suffer from the previous symptoms frequently, make an appointment to consult our experts in the Gastroenterology Department at Al-Ahli Hospital to get the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.




Be sure to visit a doctor immediately in the following cases: (3)(4)

  • Dark or black stool or stool containing blood.
  • Hematemesis, black vomiting or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
  • Severe or persistent stomach pain that may wake you up from sleep.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Dizziness or syncope.
  • Pallor.


How is H. pylori transmitted?

H. pylori enter the human body through the mouth, usually by having food or drink contaminated with these bacteria, and in less common cases it can be transmitted through saliva, such as sharing eating utensils. The infection is often transmitted during childhood, but noticeable symptoms may not appear until years later.

However, the methods of transmission of stomach bacteria are still not completely clear and are under research and study so far. (8)(9)


Foods and drinks that irritate H. pylori symptoms

The following are some foods and drinks that may exacerbate symptoms and increase discomfort in those infected with H. pylori: (5)

  • Beverages containing caffeine, such as: tea, coffee, cola, and energy drinks.
  • Acid, spicy, fatty, or fried foods and drinks.
  • Alcohol.
  • Smoking and tobacco products.


Keep in mind that irritants can vary from person to person, so it is important to pay attention to your body's reactions.


Diagnosis of H. pylori

If you have symptoms of H. pylori, your doctor will check for the presence of bacteria by conducting some tests, such as breathing and stool tests. In some cases, you may need to perform an upper endoscopy. (6)


Treatment of H. pylori

If you suffer from a peptic ulcer caused by H. pylori, treatment is with a combination of antibiotics and antacids, usually for 10-14 days, and you will need to take another test about a month after finishing the medications to ensure that the infection is cured and gone. If the infection is still present, the doctor prescribes other different medications. (6)(7)




Do not hesitate to consult our experts in the Gastroenterology Department at Al-Ahli Hospital, which provides first-class care for various GIT problems, using the latest diagnostic tools and medical equipment, and enjoy a comprehensive care customed to your needs.




References