Helicobacter Pylori: Symptoms, Test Results, and Treatment Options

Helicobacter pylori

Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and received my report a few days ago.
The report indicates that the normal range for Helicobacter pylori in the gastric examination is 0-6, and my value is 6.5.
What does this mean? I've been experiencing frequent discomfort in my stomach, sometimes feeling pressure and pain.
Is this related to the test result? During the time of the examination, I was undergoing treatment for chronic prostatitis, and the medication prescribed included tetracycline and Surgam 200 mg, but no gastric medication was prescribed.
Could this be related? What should I be aware of? Thank you, Doctor.

Yun Dan Feng Qing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/01/16

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Helicobacter pylori, now referred to as H.
pylori, is a type of bacteria that resides in the stomach.
It can cause gastritis, duodenitis, and gastrointestinal ulcers, and is even associated with certain low-grade lymphomas of the stomach as well as gastric cancer.
However, not everyone infected with this bacterium will develop these diseases, as these conditions are multifactorial and not solely caused by a single bacterium.

If your blood test shows elevated levels of antibodies against this bacterium, it indicates the presence of H.
pylori, which could mean an active infection or a past infection with residual antibodies.
Unless you are experiencing symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, bloating, or dyspepsia, it is not necessary to undergo special treatment based solely on a positive blood test.

Since you have taken some antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain relievers, this may have contributed to your upper abdominal discomfort.
If the discomfort persists, it is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic for an endoscopy to check for any related lesions and confirm the presence of the bacterium.
Additionally, it is recommended to avoid smoking, alcohol, and irritating foods, and to maintain a regular eating schedule.

Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Zhi-Ping, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/01/16

More Info

Understanding Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) is crucial for addressing gastrointestinal discomfort and related health issues. H. pylori is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining, leading to various gastrointestinal problems, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, and even an increased risk of gastric cancer.
In your case, your test result for H. pylori is 6.5, which is slightly above the normal range of 0-6. This indicates that you may have an active H. pylori infection or a past infection that your body is still responding to, as evidenced by the presence of antibodies. It’s important to note that not everyone infected with H. pylori will experience symptoms or develop complications. However, given your reported symptoms of stomach discomfort and occasional pain, it is plausible that these issues could be related to the H. pylori infection.

The symptoms associated with H. pylori infection can include:
1. Abdominal Pain: Often described as a burning sensation in the stomach area.

2. Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea, which can lead to vomiting.

3. Bloating and Gas: Increased gas production can lead to a feeling of fullness or bloating.

4. Loss of Appetite: This can occur due to discomfort or nausea.

5. Frequent Burping: This is often a result of irritation in the stomach lining.

Regarding your treatment for chronic prostatitis, the antibiotics you are taking, such as tetracycline, can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea and stomach upset. The absence of a proton pump inhibitor or an antacid in your treatment regimen may also contribute to your discomfort, especially if the medications are causing irritation in your stomach lining.
It is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and the potential need for treatment for H. pylori. The standard treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics (such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin) and a proton pump inhibitor (like omeprazole or esomeprazole) to reduce stomach acid and help heal the stomach lining. This regimen is often referred to as "triple therapy."
If you continue to experience discomfort, it may be beneficial to undergo further diagnostic testing, such as an endoscopy, to directly visualize the stomach lining and assess for any ulcers or other abnormalities. Additionally, lifestyle modifications can help alleviate symptoms. These include:
- Avoiding irritants: Limit intake of spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine, which can exacerbate stomach irritation.

- Eating smaller meals: This can help reduce the burden on your stomach and minimize discomfort.

- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help dilute stomach acid and promote digestion.

In summary, your elevated H. pylori level, combined with your gastrointestinal symptoms, suggests that further evaluation and possibly treatment for H. pylori may be warranted. It is essential to discuss your symptoms and test results with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific situation.

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