It’s a bacterium that affects the stomach and causes myriad problems for the person who is infected. Damaging the tissue of your stomach and upper small intestine, Helicobacter pylori can cause redness and soreness of the stomach tissues.
However, the worst thing this bacterium can do is create painful sores in your stomach called peptic ulcers. While not all people with this bacterium suffer from peptic ulcers, this bacterium happens to be the main cause of ulcers in the digestive tract.
In this blog episode, let’s take a look at the details of Helicobacter pylori. Dr. Amitabha Saha, the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata gives you an insightful account.
What Are the Symptoms of H. pylori Infection?
You could have the H. pylori bacteria for years and not show any visible symptoms. However, gastritis and peptic ulcers which may develop due to the presence of this bacteria do show visible, and sometimes very painful symptoms.
If you have peptic ulcers, you could have a dull pain or ache in your stomach, for example, after 2 to 3 hours of eating you could feel a dull pain in your belly. The symptoms of ulcers may mimic other stomach problems, so be sure to consult with the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata and get your issue sorted.
How is H. pylori Diagnosed?
The health professional will suggest one of the following ways in which to diagnose the problem.
- Blood tests: Performing a blood test to check for the antibodies of H. pylori is one of the simpler ways to check for the infection.
- Stool culture: You can also get a stool culture done on the advice of a physician.
- Breath test: This test gauges the presence of the enzyme urease which is catalysed by the bacterium.
- Upper endoscopy: Using a thin tube with a camera at the end, doctors can check out the upper part of the small intestine and stomach. A biopsy can then be taken for the same.
- RUT (Rapid Urease Test): This is a rapid test for the diagnosis of the presence of Helicobacter pylori and it is the most common diagnostic method. It is performed during gastroscopy and a biopsy of mucosa is taken for testing. The patient will require antibiotic therapy for a specified period of time, if the test confirms the presence of the bacterium.
How Is Helicobacter pylori Treated?
Based on a number of factors the treatment for this infection will be decided. Consult with the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata Dr. Amitabha Saha for a proper treatment plan. The doctor may prescribe medication for the same.
Since this problem can occur in children as well, parents need to be careful and monitor their child for symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
Conclusion
Infection with this bacterium is quite common and very painful. Get in touch with Dr. Amitabha Saha and get yourself treated for this condition.