Can You Get H. Pylori from Sharing Drinks? Expert Insights

Helicobacter pylori

Hello Doctor, I recently had an endoscopy and tested negative for Helicobacter pylori.
However, a few days ago, I accidentally drank a small sip of a beverage from a friend who has Helicobacter pylori.
Is there a high chance that I will contract Helicobacter pylori from this? Thank you, Dr.
Hu.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/13

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Helicobacter pylori is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route and can be contracted by inadvertently consuming food or water contaminated with the bacteria.
Most individuals infected with H.
pylori do not exhibit symptoms; however, some may experience various symptoms due to related conditions.
Common conditions associated with H.
pylori infection include gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and gastritis.
It is advisable to monitor for any discomfort, and if there are concerns or symptoms, please seek medical attention.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/10/13

More Info

H. pylori, or Helicobacter pylori, is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach and is known to be a major cause of peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis. It is important to understand how this bacterium is transmitted and the likelihood of contracting it through casual contact, such as sharing drinks.

H. pylori is primarily transmitted through oral-oral or fecal-oral routes. This means that the bacteria can be spread through saliva, vomit, or fecal matter. Sharing drinks, especially if the drinker has active H. pylori infection, can pose a risk of transmission. However, the risk is generally considered to be low for casual sharing, such as taking a small sip from a friend's drink.

In your case, since you have recently tested negative for H. pylori and only took a small sip from a drink that may have contained the bacteria, the likelihood of developing an infection is relatively low. The bacteria require a conducive environment to thrive, and a single exposure does not guarantee infection. Additionally, many people carry H. pylori without showing symptoms or developing any related health issues.

It is also worth noting that H. pylori infections are more common in certain populations, particularly in areas with poor sanitation or crowded living conditions. If you are in a region where H. pylori is prevalent, the risk may be slightly higher, but again, casual sharing of drinks is not the primary mode of transmission.

If you are concerned about the possibility of contracting H. pylori, it may be beneficial to monitor for any gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or changes in appetite. If you experience any of these symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and possibly retesting for H. pylori.

In summary, while it is theoretically possible to contract H. pylori from sharing drinks, the risk is low, especially given your recent negative test result. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding sharing utensils or drinks with those who are symptomatic, can further reduce the risk of transmission. If you have any ongoing concerns or symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management.

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