Could My Digestive Issues Be Caused by H. Pylori Infection?

Could it be caused by Helicobacter pylori?

Doctor, it has been three weeks since my gastroscopy.
The doctor mentioned that my stomach is red and slightly inflamed, but did not test for Helicobacter pylori.
Why have I been experiencing indigestion, frequent belching, and sometimes sudden belching that makes me hear my own heartbeat, even after taking PPIs for three weeks? Should I see a physician to test for Helicobacter pylori?

zkuo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/10

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Hiccups and digestive motility disorders are not necessarily caused by Helicobacter pylori.
However, if tests (which can be done through out-of-pocket blood tests) reveal the presence of bacteria, you may opt for out-of-pocket eradication treatment (insurance coverage is only available if there are ulcers) to see if there is any improvement.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2016/09/10

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some significant digestive issues, and I understand your concern regarding the possibility of an H. pylori infection. H. pylori, or Helicobacter pylori, is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining and is known to cause various gastrointestinal problems, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, and even stomach cancer in some cases.
From your description, it seems that you have undergone an endoscopy, which revealed some redness and inflammation in your stomach, but no testing for H. pylori was conducted at that time. You have also been on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for three weeks, which are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid and help with symptoms of indigestion and gastritis. However, despite this treatment, you are still experiencing symptoms such as bloating, belching, and discomfort.

The symptoms you are experiencing could indeed be related to an H. pylori infection, but they could also be due to other factors. For example, gastritis can cause similar symptoms, and it can be exacerbated by factors such as diet, stress, and the use of certain medications, including NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Additionally, while PPIs can help reduce symptoms, they do not directly address the underlying cause of the inflammation or infection.

Given that your symptoms persist despite treatment, it would be reasonable to discuss further testing for H. pylori with your physician. Testing can be done through various methods, including a breath test, stool antigen test, or biopsy during endoscopy. If H. pylori is confirmed, appropriate antibiotic therapy can be initiated to eradicate the infection, which may help alleviate your symptoms.

It's also important to consider other potential causes of your digestive issues. For instance, dietary factors such as high-fat foods, spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can contribute to bloating and discomfort. Stress and anxiety can also have a significant impact on gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms like those you described.
In summary, while your symptoms could be indicative of an H. pylori infection, they may also be related to other gastrointestinal issues. It is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss your ongoing symptoms and the possibility of testing for H. pylori. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the most appropriate course of action based on your specific situation. Additionally, consider discussing lifestyle modifications that may help improve your digestive health, such as dietary changes, stress management techniques, and regular physical activity.

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