H Pylori Gastritis

H. Pylori gastritis

Peptic ulcer disease affects about 1 out of 12 people in America, of those, 1 in 5 is associated with H. pylori infection. 

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) gastritis is a type of inflammation of the stomach lining caused by a bacterial infection. This condition is relatively common and can lead to various digestive problems. 

Epidemiology

- H. pylori is a widespread bacteria that can infect the stomach lining. It is estimated that over half of the world's population is infected with H. pylori, although not everyone with the infection develops symptoms or complications.

- The infection is more common in developing countries, crowded living conditions, and in people with poor sanitation practices.

- H. pylori infection is a risk factor for developing gastritis, peptic ulcers, and, in some cases, stomach cancer.

Symptoms:

- Many people with H. pylori infection do not experience any symptoms.

- When symptoms occur, they may include:

  - Abdominal pain or discomfort

  - Bloating

  - Nausea and vomiting

  - Loss of appetite

  - Unintended weight loss

  - Frequent burping

  - Heartburn

- Those that are younger than 60 who have indigestion should be tested for H. pylori.

- If older than 60 years or with alarming symptoms, you should discuss with your doctor about getting an endoscopy. 

Diagnosis:

If you have symptoms or risk factors, a healthcare provider may recommend tests to diagnose H. pylori infection. These tests can include:

-Breath Test: You'll be asked to drink a special solution and then breathe into a container. The presence of certain gasses can indicate the infection.

-Stool Test: A stool sample can reveal the presence of H. pylori antigens.

-Blood Test: A blood test can check for antibodies to H. pylori.

-Endoscopy: This involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into your stomach to directly view the stomach lining and obtain a biopsy.

Treatment:

If you are diagnosed with H. pylori infection, treatment can include:

- Antibiotics: Your healthcare provider will prescribe a combination of antibiotics to kill the bacteria.

- Acid-reducing medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and allow the stomach lining to heal.

It's essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before you finish them.

Upon completion of treatment testing should be done to determine treatment success. 

Prevention:

Preventing H. pylori infection can be challenging, but there are some strategies that may help:

- Practice good handwashing and food hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.

- In regions with high infection rates, avoid drinking or using untreated water.

- Try to avoid close contact with individuals who have an active H. pylori infection, especially when it comes to sharing food or utensils.

- If you have a family history of H. pylori-related problems or if you experience symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for early diagnosis and treatment.

References

FitzGerald R, Smith SM. An Overview of Helicobacter pylori Infection. Methods Mol Biol. 2021;2283:1-14. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1302-3_1. PMID: 33765303.

McConaghy JR, Decker A, Nair S. Peptic Ulcer Disease and H. pylori Infection: Common Questions and Answers. Am Fam Physician. 2023 Feb;107(2):165-172. PMID: 36791443.