[Little Knowledge] How much do you know about Helicobacter Pylori?

What is H. pylori?

H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects your stomach which can damage the tissue in your stomach and the first part of your small intestine (the duodenum). This can cause redness and soreness (inflammation). The first symptoms of H. pylori such as an ache or burning pain in your abdomen, nausea, loss of appetite, frequent burping, bloating and unintentional weight loss.

Can I test myself for H. pylori?

H. pylori infection can only be done by breath test, blood test, stool sample or a biopsy. Positive blood test for H. pylori, urea breath test (UBT) is required to indicate that your signs and symptoms are likely caused by a peptic ulcer due to these bacteria. Treatment with a combination of antibiotics and other medications will be prescribed to kill bacteria and stop the pain and the ulceration.

How to avoid H. pylori?

You can get H. pylori from food, water or utensils. You can also pick up the bacteria through contact with the saliva or other body fluid of infected people. To avoid or get rid of a bacterial infection, drink plenty of fluids like water, coconut water and natural fruit juices, eat light foods such as fruits, boiled vegetables and lean meat and don’t eat indigestible and greasy foods.

How to get rid of H. pylori?

There is no vaccine to prevent H. pylori infection but there are promising results from a late-stage clinical trial. If you follow the treatment plan and takes all medication to its completion, the chance that an infection would return within three years is less than 10%.

by Icy.