Helicobacter pylori

H. pylori is a bacterium capable of surviving, like a parasite, in the walls of the stomach by secreting an enzyme called urease, which protects it from this highly acidic environment. It then colonizes the gastric mucosa, where it is less susceptible to acid secretions. Its proliferation causes inflammation of the stomach (gastritis). It is often acquired early in life, and without treatment, the infection can persist for years, even a lifetime.
The main symptoms of an H. pylori infection are:

• abdominal pain or a burning sensation in the stomach
• nausea and vomiting, especially after a meal
• bloating
• frequent belching
• lloss of appetite

Consult a doctor immediately if: 

• abdominal pain intensifies
• there is blood in the stool 
• you experience sudden weight loss
• vomiting persists or contains blood

These symptoms may be a sign of a more serious medical condition.

The H. pylori bacterium infects the stomach lining, so it can also be present in stool, saliva, and dental plaque. Screening is done in different ways. The most common are the urea breath test and stool analysis. These non-invasive tests are useful both for initial diagnosis and to confirm eradication after treatment. In some cases, an upper endoscopy may be performed: the gastroenterologist uses a flexible observation probe to take a sample (biopsy) of the gastric mucosa and determine the presence of H. pylori.

Treatment for H. pylori infection, also known as eradication therapy, aims to combat the bacteria with antibiotics while promoting healing of the gastric mucosa. The doctor prescribes antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which reduces gastric acid production, for 10 to 14 days. If there is antibiotic resistance or the treatment is ineffective, a bismuth-based compound or other antibiotics may be administered in addition to the PPI.
A breath or stool test is performed approximately one month after the end of treatment to confirm the eradication of H. pylori from the body. If the bacteria are still present, the doctor will repeat the treatment

Infection with Helicobacter pylori almost always causes inflammation of the stomach (gastritis), sometimes affecting the entire organ or only the antrum. By altering the protective mechanisms of the mucous membrane and stimulating the production of stomach acid, the bacteria can cause gastric or duodenal ulcers. In the long term, this infection also increases the risk of stomach cancer.

Weight loss can occur during a symptomatic H. pylori infection, especially when stomach pain, nausea, or loss of appetite interfere with eating. After effective treatment and restoration of gastric function, appetite and weight usually tend to normalize.

The bacterium H. pylori spreads mainly through oral or fecal routes. Poor hygiene, contaminated water or food, and close contact with an infected person promote its transmission. Diet and smoking also influence the risk of infection. If you experience symptoms, reduce your alcohol consumption and avoid spicy foods. In addition, a diet low in fruits and vegetables increases the vulnerability of the stomach.
The risk of infection increases with age and affects men more frequently. People with chronic gastrointestinal diseases or weakened immune systems are also at increased risk.

Antibiotic treatment is necessary to eradicate the bacteria. A natural treatment may be considered as a supplement, on medical advice, to support healing or reduce the bacterial load. Probiotics, for example, help to balance the intestinal flora.

Helicobacter pylori infection is common, sometimes asymptomatic, and can lead to complications if left untreated. Eradication therapy usually combines antibiotics with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Early screening and appropriate treatment can relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of stomach diseases.