Overview
Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that infects the stomach lining. It is the leading cause of peptic ulcers.
Symptoms
• Upper abdominal burning
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Early fullness
• Bad breath
• Ulcers leading to bleeding
Diagnosis
• Urea breath test
• Stool antigen
• Endoscopy with biopsy
Treatment
• Triple or quadruple therapy antibiotics
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Bismuth-based regimens
Complications
• Ulcers
• Gastritis
• Stomach cancer (long-term infection)
Self-Management
Avoid spicy, acidic, and fatty foods. Track symptoms and treatment progress.