H. pylori FAQ

What is H. pylori?

1. How is H. pylori infection diagnosed?

H. pylori infection can be diagnosed through a number of tests, including a blood test, breath test, stool test, and endoscopy with biopsy.

2. How is H. pylori infection treated?

Treatment for H. pylori infection usually involves a combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications taken for a period of one to two weeks.

3. Can H. pylori infection lead to stomach cancer?

While most people with H. pylori infection do not develop stomach cancer, the bacteria are a known risk factor for the disease, particularly in those with long-term infection and untreated or undertreated inflammation in the stomach.

4. Can H. pylori infection be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent H. pylori infection, but practising good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly before eating and after using the bathroom, and avoiding contaminated food and water may help reduce the risk of infection.

It is important to take all medications exactly as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before you finish the full course of treatment. This will help ensure that the infection is completely eradicated and reduce the risk of complications. Your doctor may also recommend follow-up testing to confirm that the infection has been successfully treated.

5. What are the signs and symptoms of H. pylori?

Many people experience no symptoms but some may experience:

• Stomach pain
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

6. Is Helicobacter pylori serious?

H. pylori won’t cause most people problems but in some cases it can cause consistent irritation, pain and the presence of stomach ulcers. These prolonged symptoms can lead to cancer.

7. Can H. pylori be cured?

Treatment for H. pylori infection usually involves a combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications taken for a period of one to two weeks.

8. What happens if H. pylori is not treated?

If H. pylori is not treated, it could ultimately lead to stomach cancer. It can also lead to chronic dyspepsia, duodenal ulcer disease and asymptomatic chronic gastritis.

9. What is PYtest?

PYtest is a diagnostic test to determine the presence of H. pylori infection in the stomach.

10. What is a positive CLOtest?

A positive CLOtest indicates that H. pylori was present in the gastric biopsy taken.

About the diagnosis of H. pylori

About the treatment of H. pylori