H. Pylori Specialist

What is H. pylori?

1. pylori is a bacterial infection that occurs in the stomach. It is often picked up and acquired through the mouth from bacteria in foods or fluids. H. pylori is asymptomatic with a higher incidence in certain patients from third world countries.
   
   

It’s possible that you may be infected with H. pylori and never develop symptoms. However, if you’re experiencing signs of peptic ulcer disease, such as heartburn or reflux, then you should contact the team at Edmunds Gastroenterology for an evaluation. Without treatment, H. pylori can cause damage to the lining of your digestive tract, leading to ulcers.

How is H. pylori diagnosed?

1. pylori is often diagnosed by biopsies at the time of upper endoscopy (EGD). It can also be diagnosed by blood test or stool study. Blood testing does not differentiate between active or previous H. pylori infection.

What are the complications of H. pylori?

1. H. pylori often leads to gastritis, dyspepsia, or stomach ulcers, as well as stomach cancer and lymphoma. With gastritis, you may experience abdominal discomfort, bloating, nausea and vomiting. Stomach ulcers often result in abdominal pain or black stool (melena) with pain usually occurring after eating. Duodenal ulcers can also be found. In fact, 90% of patients with duodenal ulcers have H. pylori.

How is H. pylori treated?

Dr. Edmunds and his team treat an H. pylori infection by prescribing two antibiotics that you take at the same time. You may also need medication to reduce acid production in your stomach to help heal your stomach lining, such as:

• Proton pump inhibitors
• Histamine (H2) blockers
• Bismuth subsalicylate, also known as Pepto-Bismol
  
  

Dr. Edmunds and his team recommend you return to the office about four weeks after treatment so they can test if the H. pylori has been eradicated. If you’re still infected, they recommend another round of treatment to clear up the infection.

H. Pylori is a common bacterial infection that can lead to significant damage to your digestive system. For an evaluation, call Edmunds Gastroenterology today or request an appointment online.

This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Please consult with your primary care physician or a specialist regarding your symptoms.