Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) is a corkscrew-shaped bacterium that infects the stomach.
The bacterial infection can easily be passed from person to person.
H. pylori is also the primary cause of peptic ulcers and a contributing factor to stomach cancer.
Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
How Is H. Pylori Transmitted?
These include its corkscrew shape, allowing the bacterium to burrow into the stomach lining.
It also secretes a substance calledadhesinthat locks it firmly into place.
Studies suggest that around 18% of people with H. pylori will experiencegastritis symptoms.
The condition tends to bechronic(persistent) with episodic bouts ofacute(sudden, severe) symptoms.
H. pylori is the most common cause of PUD.
H. pylori causes PUD by triggeringinflammationin the stomach lining.
Long-term exposure to excessive HCA can lead to tissue deterioration and the formation of painful, bleeding ulcers.
pylori is today categorized as a class 1carcinogen(along with things like cigarette smoke and processed meat).
How H. pylori causes gastric cancer is still unknown.
What Makes Symptoms Last Longer?
Stress may also contribute to chronic gastritis and the risk of peptic ulcer disease.
If used in people with H. pylori, the risk increases to over sixfold.
H. pylori can be challenging to treat due to high rates ofantibiotic resistance.
The medications are typically taken on an empty stomach before meals to improve absorption.
PPIs likeNexium (esomeprazole)orPrevacid (lansoprazole)work by blocking an enzyme that stimulates acid production.
Severe ulcers may require more invasiveendoscopicprocedures performed undergeneral anesthesiaor withmonitored anesthesia care (MAC).
It is well known that dental plaque is a reservoir for H. pylori.
Some studies suggest that these reservoirs may resist oral antibiotics and can cause reinfection after treatment is completed.
C. difficile is naturally found in the intestine but is well-controlled by other bacteria in theintestinal flora.
When taking antibiotics, many of these “good” bacteria are killed, allowing C. difficile to overgrow.
When this happens, the ensuing infection can cause severe diarrhea, fever, nausea, and stomach pain.
Some studies even suggest that it may improve cure rates.
H. pylori is associated with an increased risk of peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer.
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