Also known as H.pylori
It occurs when the helicobacter pylori bacteria infect your stomach .H.pylori is a common type of bacteria that grows in the digestive tract and tends to attack the stomach lining. It’s adapted to live in the harsh , acidic environment of the stomach.The ‘H’in the name is short for helicobacter.”Helico”means spiral ,which refers to the shape of the bacteria.
SYMPTOMS
Most people with H.pylori never have symptoms.H.pylori develop other conditions,such as gastritis and peptic ulcers.This is because the bacteria could damage the inner protective lining of your stomach.
Symptoms of peptic ulcers from H.pylori may include;
*Dull or burning stomach pain .
*Feeling full quickly after starting to eat .
*Bloating.
*Nausea.
*Unexplained weight loss.
*Vomiting.
*Burning.
Although rare,H.pylori infections may increase your risk of developing stomach cancer .This is due to chronic inflammation caused by the infection.
Symptoms of stomach cancer may include;
*Heartburn.
*Acid reflux.
*Indigestion.
*Difficulty swallowing.
*Poor appetite .
*Unexplained weight loss
*Discomfort or swelling in the abdomen.
*Fatigue.
TRANSMISSION OF H.PYlORI
1.Oral to oral;This may be transmitted through saliva from one person mouth to another,such as by kissing.
2.Fecal to oral ;Coming into contact with vomit or stool ,such as if you don’t wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom.
3.Contaminated water and food . Food and water may be contaminated with feaces or other bacteria in unhygienic environment.
RISK FACTORS
*Crowded living conditions.
*Lack of clean water and sewer services.
*Living in close quarters with someone who is infected.
*Living on a developing country .
DIAGNOSIS
*Stool antigen test .
*Stool PCR test
*Urea breath test.
TREATMENT
1.Tripple therapy;Therapies that combine PPIs with two antibiotics remain the first line options for treating H.pylori
2 Antibiotics.eg Amoxyl ,Metronidazole .
3.Proton pump inhibitors eg Omeprazole ,esomeprazole
4.Bismuth sub salicylate.
5.Histamine (H-2)blockers.
COMPLICATION
*Ulcers
*Inflammation of the stomach lining
*Stomach cancer
